li'^m^mw'^^'-y"--  ■•' 


SEMICENTENNIAL  PUBLICATIONS 

OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA 


1868-1918 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Translated  into  English  Verse 


BY 

R.  SELDEN  ROSE 

AND 

LEONARD  BACON 


UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA  PRESS 
BERKELEY 

1919 


THE   CID 


Lashed  in  the  saddle,  the  Cid  thundered  out 
To  his  last  onset.    With  a  strange  disdain 
The  dead  man  looked  on  victory.    In  vain 
Emir  and  Dervish  strive  against  the  rout. 
In  vain  Morocco  and  Biserta  shout, 
For  still  before  the  dead  man  fall  the  slain. 
Death  rides  for  Captain  of  the  Men  of  Spain, 
And  their  dead  truth  shall  slay  the  living  doubt. 


The  soul  of  the  great  epic,  like  the  chief 
Conquers  in  aftertime  on  fields  unloio^vn. 
Men  hear  today  the  horn  of  Roland  blown 
To  match  the  thunder  of  the  guns  of  France, 
And  nations  with  a  heritage  of  grief 
Follow  their  dead  victorious  in  Romance. 


INTRODUCTION 

The  importance  of  the  Cid  as  Spain's  bulwark  against  the 
Moors  of  the  eleventh  century  is  exceeded  by  his  importance  to 
his  modern  countrymen  as  the  epitome  of  the  noble  and  vigorous 
qualities  that  made  Spain  great.  Menéndez  y  Pelayo  has  called 
him  the  symbol  of  Spanish  nationality  in  virtue  of  the  fact  that 
in  him  there  were  united  sobriety  of  intention  and  expression, 
simplicity  at  once  noble  and  familiar,  ingenuous  and  easy  cour- 
tesy, imagination  rather  solid  than  brilliant,  piety  that  was  more 
active  than  contemplative,  genuine  and  soberly  restrained  affec- 
tions, deep  conjugal  devotion,  a  clear  sense  of  justice,  loyalty  to 
his  sovereign  tempered  by  the  courage  to  protest  against  injustice 
to  himself,  a  strange  and  appealing  confusion  of  the  spirit  of 
chivalry  and  plebeian  rudeness,  innate  probity  rich  in  vigorous 
and  stem  sincerity,  and  finally  a  vaguely  sensible  delicacy  of 
affection  that  is  the  inheritance  of  strong  men  and  clean  blood. ^ 

This  is  the  epic  Cid  who  in  the  last  quarter  of  the  eleventh*" 
century  was  baaished  by  Alphonso  VI  of  Castile,  fought  his  way 
to  the  Mediterranean,  stormed  Valencia,  married  his  two  daugh- 
ters to  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  and  defended  his  fair  name  in 
parliament  and  in  battle. 

The  poet  either  from  ignorance  or  choice  has  disregarded 
the  historical  significance  of  the  campaigns  of  the  Cid.  He  fails 
to  mention  his  defeat  of  the  threatening  horde  of  Almorávides 
at  the  very  moment  when  their  factory  over  Alphonso 's  Cas- 
tilians  at  Zalaca  had  opened  to  them  Spain's  richest  provinces, 

1  Cf.  Menéndez  y  Pelayo,  Tratado  de  los  romances  viejos,  I,  315. 

[  vii  ] 


IXTEODUCTION 

and  turns  the  crowning  achievement  of  the  great  warrior's  life 
into  the  preliminary  to  a  domestic  event  which  he  considered  of 
greater  importance.  "We  are  grateful  to  him  for  his  lack  of 
accuracy,  for  it  illustrates  how  men  thouglit  about  their  heroes 
in  that  time.  The  twelfth  century  Castilians  would  have  ad- 
mitted that  in  battle  the  Cid  was  of  less  avail  than  their  patron 
James,  the  son  of  Zebedee,  but  tliey  would  have  added  that  after 
all  the  saint  was  a  Galilean  and  not  a  Spaniard. 

In  order  then  to  make  the  Cid  not  merely  heroic  but  a 
national  hero  he  must  become  the  possessor  of  attributes  of 
greatness  beyond  mere  courage.  The  poet  therefore,  probably 
assuming  that  his  hearers  were  well  aware  of  the  Cid's  prowess 
in  arms,  devoted  himself  to  a  theme  of  more  intimate  appeal. 
The  Cid,  an  exile  from  Castile  and  flouted  by  his  enemies  at 
home,  must  vindicate  himself.  The  discomfiture  of  the  Moor  is 
not  an  end  in  itself  but  the  means  of  vindication  and,  be  it  said, 
of  support.  AVhen  he  is  restored  to  favor,  the  marriage  of  his 
daughters  to  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  under  Alphonso's  auspices  is 
the  royal  acknowledgment.  The  treachery  of  the  heirs  is  the 
pretext  for  the  Parliament  of  Toledo  where  the  Cid  shall  appear 
in  all  the  glory  of  triumphant  vindication.  The  interest  in  the 
hecatombs  of  Moors  and  even  in  the  fall  of  Valencia  is  a  second- 
arj-  one.  What  really  matters  is  that  the  Cid's  fair  name  be 
cleared  of  all  stain  of  disloyalty  and  that  doña  Elvira  and 
dofia  8ol  wed  wortiiy  husbands. 

This  unity  of  plan  is  consistently  preserved  by  a  rearrange- 
ment of  the  true  chronology  of  events  and  by  the  introduction 
of  purely  traditional  episodes.  Tlie  shifting  of  historical  values 
may  he  (hn-  to  the  fact  that  when  tiie  poem  was  composed,  about 
IIW),  the  power  of  the  Moor  had  really  been  broken '  by  tlve 
ronf|nest.s  of  Ferdinand  T,  Alphonso  VI,  Alphonso  VII  and 
A!|»li(»iiso  VIII  of  Castile  and  Alplionso  I,  the  Battler,  of  Aragón. 

[  viii  ] 


INTRODUCTION 

The  menace  was  no  longer  felt  with  the  keenness  of  an  hundred 
years  before.  Until  the  end  of  the  tenth  century  the  Moors 
had  dominated  the  Peninsula.  The  growth  of  the  Christian 
states  from  the  heroic  nucleus  in  northern  Asturias  was  confined 
to  the  territory  bordering  the  Bay  of  Biscay,  Asturias,  San- 
tander, part  of  the  province  of  Burgos,  León  and  Galicia.  In 
the  East  other  centei*s  of  resistance  had  sprung  up  in  Navarre, 
Aragón  and  the  County  of  Barcelona.  At  the  beginning  of  the 
eleventh  century  the  tide  turned.  The  progress  of  the  recon- 
quest  was  due  as  much  to  the  disruption  of  Moorish  unity  as  to 
the  greater  aggressiveness  and  closer  cooperation  of  the  Chris- 
tian kingdoms.  The  end  of  the  Caliphate  of  Cordova  was  the 
signal  for  the  rise  of  a  great  number  of  mutually  independent 
Moorish  states.  Sixty  years  later  there  were  no  less  than  twenty- 
three  of  them.  By  the  middle  of  the  following  century  the 
enthusiam  that  had  followed  the  first  successful  blows  struck 
against  the  Moor  had  waned,  and  with  it  the  vividness  of  their 
historical  significance  and  order. 

Let  us  look  at  the  Cid  for  a  moment  as  he  was  seen  by  a 
Latin  chronicler  who  confesses  that  the  purpose  of  his  modest 
narrative  was  merely  to  preserve  the  memory  of  the  Cid  of 
history. 

When  Ferdinand  I  of  Castile  died  under  the  walls  of  Valencia 
in  1065  he  divided  his  kingdom  among  his  five  children.  To 
Sancho  he  left  Castile,  to  Alphonso  León,  to  Garcia  Galicia,  to 
doña  Urraca  the  city  and  lands  of  Zamora,  and  to  doña  Elvira 
Toro.  Sancho,  like  his  father,  soon  set  about  uniting  the  scat- 
tered inheritance.  Ruy  Diaz,  a  native  of  Bivar  near  Burgos, 
was  his  standard  bearer  against  Alphonso  at  the  battle  of 
Volpéjar,  aided  him  in  the  Galician  campaign  and  was  active 
at  the  siege  of  Zamora,  where  Sancho  was  treacherously  slain. 
Alphonso,  the  despoiled  lord  of  León,  succeeded  to  the  throne 

[ix] 


<— 


INTRODUCTION 

of  Castile.  Ruy  Diaz,  now  called  the  Campeador  (Champion) 
in  honor  of  his  vietorj-  over  a  knight  of  Navarre,  was  sent  with 
a  force  of  men  to  collect  the  annual  taxes  from  the  tributary- 
Moorish  kings  of  Andalusia.  Mudafar  of  Granada,  eager  to 
throw  off  the  yoke  of  Castile,  marched  against  the  Campeador 
and  the  loyal  Motamid  of  Seville,  and  was  routed  at  the  battle 
of  Cabra,  García  Ordonez  who  was  fighting  in  the  ranks  of 
Mudafar  was  taken  prisoner.  It  was  here  probably  that  the 
Cid  acquired  that  tuft  of  Garcia 's  beard  which  he  later  produced 
with  such  convincing  effect  at  Toledo,  The  Cid  returned  to 
Castile  laden  with  booty  and  honors.  The  jealousy  aroused  by 
this  exploit  and  bj'  an  equally  successful  raid  against  the  region 
about  Toledo  caused  the  banishment  of  the  Cid.  From  this  time 
until  his  death  he  was  ceaselessly  occupied  in  warfare  against 
the  Moors. 

The  vfay  to  Valencia  was  beset  with  more  and  greater  dif- 
ficulties than  those  described  in  the  poem.  The  events  of  the 
first  years  of  exile  are  closely  associated  with  the  Moorish  state 
of  Zaragoza.  At  the  death  of  its  sovereign  Almoktadir  bitter 
striff  arose  between  his  two  sons,  Almutamin  in  Zaragoza  and 
Alfagib  in  Denia.  The  Cid  and  his  followers  cast  their  lot  with 
the  former,  while  Alfagib  sought  in  vain  to  maintain  the  balance 
by  allying  himself  with  Sancho  of  Aragón  and  Berenguer  of 
Barcelona.  After  a  decisive  victory  in  which  Berenguer  was 
taken  pri.soner  Almutamin  returned  to  Zaragoza  with  his  cham- 
pion. "Iii)n(»ring  liini  above  his  own  son,  his  realm  and  all  his 
poiCM'ssions,  80  that  he  seemed  almost  the  lord  of  the  kingdom." 
There  the  Cid  continued  to  increase  in  wealth  and  fame  at  the 
expense  of  Sandio  of  Aragón  and  Alfagib  until  the  death  of 
Almutamin. 

For  a  short  time  the  Cid  was  restored  to  the  good  graces 
«»f  Alphfinso.  l)nt  a  niisiuiderstandintr  during  some  joint  military 


INTEODUCTION 

expedition  brought  a  second  decree  of  banishment.  The  Cid's 
possessions  were  confiscated  and  his  wife  and  children  cast  into 
prison. 

The  Cid  then  went  to  the  support  of  Alkaadir,  king  of 
Valencia.  He  defeated  the  threatening  Almorávides  flushed 
with  their  victory  over  the  Castilians  at  Zalaca.  Again  he 
chastised  Berenguer  of  Barcelona.  He  hastened  to  answer  a 
second  summons  from  Alphonso,  this  time  to  bear  aid  in  oper- 
ations in  the  region  about  Granada.  Suspecting  that  Alphonso 
intended  treachery,  he  withdrew  from  the  camp  toward  Valen- 
cia. With  Zaragoza  as  his  base  he  laid  waste  the  lands  of 
Sancho  and  avenged  himself  upon  Alphonso  by  ravaging 
Calahorra  and  Nájera. 

Finally  in  1092  the  overthrow  of  Alkaadir  prompted  him  to 
interfere  definitely  in  the  affairs  of  Valencia.  He  besieged  the 
city  closely  and  captured  it  in  1094.  There  he  ruled,  indepen- 
dent, until  his  death  in  1099. 

Even  the  Moorish  chroniclers  of  the  twelfth  century  pay 
their  tribute  to  the  memory  of  the  Cid  by  the  virulence  of  their 
hatred.  Aben  Bassam  wrote :  ' '  The  might  of  this  tyrant  was 
ever  growing  until  its  weight  was  felt  upon  the  highest  peaks 
and  in  the  deepest  valleys,  and  filled  with  terror  both  noble 
and  commoner.  I  have  heard  men  say  that  when  his  eagerness 
was  greatest  and  his  ambition  highest  he  uttered  these  words, 
'If  one  Rodrigo  brought  ruin  upon  this  Peninsula,  another 
Rodrigo  shall  reconquer  it!'  A  saying  that  filled  the  hearts  of 
the  believers  with  fear  and  caused  them  to  think  that  what  they 
anxiously  dreaded  would  speedily  come  to  pass.  This  man, 
who  was  the  lash  and  scourge  of  his  time,  was,  because  of  his 
love  of  glory,  his  steadfastness  of  character  and  his  heroic  valor, 
-one  of  the  miracles  of  the  Lord.  Victory  ever  followed  Rodrigo 's 
banner — may  Allah  curse  him — he  triumphed  over  the  princes 

[xi] 


INTRODUCTION 

of  the  imbelievers  . . .  and  with  a  handful  of  men  confounded  and 
dispersed  their  numerous  armies."-  One  can  hardly  look  for 
strict  neutrality  in  the  verdicts  of  Moorish  historians,  but  between 
the  one  extreme  of  fanaticism  that  led  Aben  Bassam  elsewhere 
to  call  the  Cid  a  robber  and  a  Galician  dog  and  the  other  that 
four  centuries  later  urged  his  canonization,  the  true  believer  can 
readily  ^discern  the  figure  of  a  warrior  kvho  was  neither  saint  nor 
bandit  J 

The  deeds  of  such  a  man  naturally  appealed  to  popular 
imagination,  and  it  is  not  wonderful  that  there  were  substantial 
accretions  that  less  than  a  hundred  years  later  found  their  way 
into  the  Epic.  Within  an  astonishingly  short  time  the  purely 
traditional  elements  of  the  marriage  of  the  Cid's  daughters 
and  thi*  Parliament  at  Toledo  became  its  central  theme.  It  is 
probable  that  such  a  vital  change  was  not  entirely  due  to  con- 
scious art  in  a  poet  whose  distinguishing  characteristic  is  his 
very  unconsciousness.  From  his  minute  familiarity  with  the 
topography  of  the  country  about  Medina  and  Gormaz,  his 
affection  for  St.  Stephen's,  his  utter  lack  of  accuracy  in  his 
di'seription  of  the  siege  of  Valencia  and  from  the  dispropor- 
tionate prominence  given  to  such  really  insignificant  episodes 
as  the  sieges  of  Ca.stejón  and  Alcocer,  Pidal  has  inferred  that 
the  unknown  poet  was  himself  a  native  of  this  region  and  that 
hi.s  story  of  the  life  of  the  Cid  is  the  product  of  local  tradition.^ 
Moreov«'r  tliere  is  abundant  evidence  to  prove  that  before  the 
composition  of  tlie  poem  as  it  has  come  down  to  us,  the  com- 
pelling figure  of  the  ('id  had  inspired  other  chants  of  an  heroic 
if  not  epic  nature. 

From  this  vigorous  plant  patriotic  fervor  and  sjonpathetic 

2  AIk-ii    Haj^Hfim,    ToHoro    (1109),    ef.    Dozy,    Recherches    sur    I'histoire 
ptilitiqiin  ot  littirairo  d  'Espagne  pendant  le  Moyen  Age.     Leyden,  1849. 
»Cid,  1,  72  7.3. 

[xiil 


INTRODUCTION 

imagination  caused  to  spring  a  perennial  growth  of  popular 
legends.  The  ' '  General  Chronicle  of  Alphonso  the  Wise, ' '  begun 
in  1279,  reflects  the  national  affection  for  the  very  chattels  of 
the  Cid.  It  relates  that  Babieca  passed  the  evening  of  his  life 
in  ease  and  luxury  and  that  his  seed  flourished  in  the  land. 

After  this  constantly  increasing  biographical  material  had 
been  developed  and  expanded  through  at  least  six  chronicles  and 
later  epic  treatment  it  was  taken  up  by  the  ballads  with  a  wealth 
of  new  episodes.  Of  these  one  of  the  most  interesting  is  the 
Cid's  duel  wñth  the  conde  Lozano  and  his  marriage  to  Ximena. 
The  hounds  of  Diego  Lainez,  the  Cid's  father,  have  seized  a  hare 
belonging  to  the  conde  Lozano,  who  considers  that  he  has  been 
grievously  insulted  thereby.  Accordingly  he  retaliates  with 
slurs  that  can  be  removed  only  on  the  field  of  honor.  Diego 
Lainez,  too  old  to  fight,  in  order  to  discover  which  one  of  his 
three  sons  is  worthy  of  clearing  the  honor  of  the  family,  bites 
the  finger  of  each  one  successively.  The  two  eldest  utter  only 
cries  of  pain,  but  Rodrigo  with  great  spirit  threatens  his  father. 
He  is  chosen  to  fight  the  conde  Lozano  and  slays  him.  Ximena 
demands  justice  for  her  father's  death,  and  protection.  There- 
upon by  order  of  King  Ferdinad  the  Cid  and  Ximena  are  mar- 
ried. Later  we  have  Ximena 's  complaints  that  her  husband's 
activity  in  the  field  against  the  Moors  have  tried  her  spirit  sorely. 
There  are  many  ballads  that  treat  of  the  arming  and  consecra- 
tion of  the  Cid  in  ncAvly  conquered  Coimbra,  of  his  victory  over 
five  Moorish  kings  who  gave  him  the  name  Cid  (Master),  and 
became  his  tributaries,  of  the  testament  of  Ferdinand  in  virtue 
of  which  the  Cid  is  made  the  adviser  of  Sancho  and  Urraca.  The 
siege  of  Zamora  and  the  death  of  Sancho  are  fertile  topics. 
At  the  accession  of  Alphonso  the  Cid  forces  him  to  swear  a 
solemn  oath  that  he  was  not  partj-  to  the  murder  of  his  brother 
Sancho.    Finally  when  the  Cid  is  independent  master  of  Valen- 

[  xiii  ] 


INTEODUCTION 

cia,  the  Sultau  of  Persia,  hearing  of  his  exploits,  sends  him 
rich  presents  and  a  magic  balsam.  This  the  Cid  drinks  when 
he  is  at  the  point  of  death.  It  preserves  his  dead  body  with  such 
perfect  semblance  of  life  that,  mounted  on  Babieca,  he  turns 
the  victory-  of  the  Moor  Bucar  into  utter  rout. 

Not  the  least  curious  is  the  legend  of  the  Jew  who  having 
feared  the  living  Cid,  desired  to  pluck  his  sacred  beard  as  he 
lay  in  state  in  St.  Peter's  at  Cárdena.  "This  is  the  body  of 
the  Cid,"  said  he,  "so  praised  of  all,  and  men  say  that  while 
he  lived  none  plucked  his  beard.  I  would  fain  seize  it  and  take 
it  in  my  hand,  for  since  he  lies  here  dead  he  shall  not  prevent 
this."  The  Jew  stretched  forth  his  hand,  but  ere  he  touched 
that  beard  the  Cid  laid  his  hand  upon  his  sword  Tizona  and  drew 
it  forth  from  its  scabbard  a  handsbreadth.  When  the  Jew 
beheld  this  he  was  struck  with  mighty  fear,  and  backward  he 
fell  in  a  swoon  for  terror.  Now  this  Jew  was  converted  and 
ended  his  days  in  St.  Peter's,  a  man  of  God.  ^ 

The  uninitiated  reader  will  doubtless  miss  in  the  Epic  more 
than  one  of  his  most  fondly  cherished  episodes.  If  he  prefer 
the  Cid  of  romance  and  fable,  let  him  turn  to  the  ballads  and 
the  Chronicle  of  the  Cid.  If  he  would  cling  to  the  punctilious, 
gallant  hidalgo  of  the  early  seventeenth  century,  let  him  turn 
to  the  Cid  of  Guillém  de  Castro,  or  to  Corneille's  paragon.  Don 
Quixotti  wisely  said:  "That  there  was  a  Cid  there  is  no  doubt, 
or  Bernardo  del  Carpió  either;  but  that  they  did  the  deeds  men 
say  they  did,  there  is  a  doubt  a-plenty."  In  the  heroic  heart 
of  the  Epic  Cid  one  finds  the  simple  nobility  that  later  centuries 
have  obscured  with  adornment. 


[  x'v] 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

CANTAE  I 

THE  BANISHMENT  OP  THE  CID 

I     

He  turned  aiid  looked  upon  them,  and  he  wept  very  sore 
As  he  saw  the  yawning  gateway  and  the  hasps  wrenched  off  the 

door, 
And  the  pegs  whereon  no  mantle  nor  coat  of  vair  there  hung. 
There  perched  no  moulting  goshawk,  and  there  no  falcon  swung. 
My  lord  the  Cid  sighed  deeply  such  grief  was  in  his  heart 
And  he  spake  well  and  wisely: 

"Oh  Thou,  in  Heaven  that  art 
Our  Father  and  our  Master,  now  I  give  thanks  to  Thee. 
Of  their  wickedness  my  foemen  have  done  this  thing  to  me." 

II  Then  they  shook  out  the  bridle  rein  further  to  ride  afar. 
They  had  the  crow  on  their  right  hand  as  they  issued  from  Bivar ; 
And  as  they  entered  Burgos  upon  their  left  it  sped. 

And  the  Cid  shrugged  his  shoulders,  and  the  Cid  shook  his  head : 
' '  Good  tidings  Alvar  Fañez !    "We  are  banished  from  our  weal. 
But  on  a  day  with  honor  shall  we  come  unto  Castile." 

III  Roy  Diaz  entered  Burgos  with  sixty  pennons  strong, 
And  forth  to  look  upon  him  did  the  men  and  women  throng. 
And  with  their  wives  the  townsmen  at  the  windows  stood  hard  by. 
And  they  wept  in  lamentation,  their  grief  was  risen  so  high. 
As  with  one  mouth,  together  they  spake  with  one  accord : 

' '  God,  what  a  noble  vassal,  an  he  had  a  worthy  lord. ' ' 


2  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

IV     Fain  had  they  made  him  welcome,  but  none  dared  do  the 

For  fear  of  Don  Alfonso,  and  the  fury  of  the  King.  [thing 

His  mandate  unto  Burgos  came  ere  the  evening  fell. 

With  utmost  care  they  brought  it,  and  it  was  sealed  well: 

'  That  no  man  to  Roy  Diaz  give  shelter  now,  take  heed. 

And  if  one  give  him  shelter,  let  him  know  in  very  deed 

He  shall  lose  his  whole  possession,  nay !  the  eyes  within  his  head 

Nor  shall  his  soul  and  body  be  found  in  better  stead.' 

Great  sorrow  had  the  Christians,  and  from  his  face  they  hid. 
Wiis  none  dared  aught  to  utter  unto  my  lord  the  Cid. 

Then  the  Campeador  departed  unto  his  lodging  straight. 
But  when  he  was  come  thither,  they  had  locked  and  barred  the 
In  their  fear  of  King  Alfonso  had  they  done  even  so.  [gate. 

A*n  the  Cid  forced  not  his  entrance,  neither  for  weal  nor  woe 
Durst  they  open  it  unto  him.    Loudly  his  men  did  call. 
Nothing  thereto  in  answer  said  the  folk  within  the  hall. 
My  lord  the  Cid  spurred  onward,  to  the  doorway  did  he  go. 
He  drew  his  foot  from  the  stirrup,  he  smote  the  door  one  blow. 
Yet  tlie  door  would  not  open,  for  they  had  barred  it  fast. 
But  a  maiden  of  nine  summers  came  unto  him  at  last : 

"Cam|)('ador  in  happy  hour  thou  girdedst  on  the  sword. 
'Tis  the  King's  will.    Yestereven  came  the  mandate  of  our  lord. 
With  utmost  care  they  brought  it,  and  it  was  sealed  with  care: 
None  to  ope  to  you  or  greet  you  for  any  cause  shall  dare. 
And  if  we  do,  we  forfeit  houses  and  lands  instead. 
Nay  we  shall  lose  morever,  the  e.yes  within  the  head. 
And,  Cid,  with  our  misfortune,  naught  whatever  dost  thou  gain. 
But  ma}'  God  with  all  his  power  support  thee  in  thy  pain." 

So  spake  the  child  and  turned  away.  Unto  her  home  went  she. 
That  he  lacked  Ihe  King's  favor  now  well  the  Cid  might  see. 
He  left  the  <lo(»r;  forth  onward  he  spurred  through  Burgos  town. 
When  lie  luKJ  reached  Saint  Mary's,  then  he  got  swiftly  down. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  3 

He  fell  upon  his  knee  and  prayed  with  a  true  heart  indeed : 
And  when  the  prayer  was  over,  he  mounted  on  the  steed. 
Forth  from  the  gate  and  over  the  Arlanzon  he  went. 
There  in  the  sand  by  Burgos,  the  Cid  let  pitch  his  tent. 
Roy  Diaz,  who  in  happy  hour  had  girded  on  the  brand. 
Since  none  at  home  would  greet  him,  encamped  there  on  the  sand 
With  a  good  squadron,  camping  as  if  within  the  wood. 
They  will  not  let  him  in  Burgos  buy  any  kind  of  food. 
Provender  for  a  single  day  they  dared  not  to  him  sell. 

V  Good  Martin  Antolinez  in  Burgos  that  did  dwell 

To  the  Cid  and  to  his  henchmen  much  wine  and  bread  gave  o'er. 
That  he  bought  not,  but  brought  with  him — of  everything  good 

store. 
Content  was  the  great  Campeador,  and  his  men  were  of  good 
Spake  Martin  Antolinez.     His  counsel  you  shall  hear.       [cheer. 
"In  happy  hour,  Cid  Campeador,  most  surely  wast  thou  born. 
Tonight  here  let  us  tarry,  but  let  us  flee  at  morn. 
For  someone  will  denounce  me,  that  thy  service  I  have  done. 
In  the  danger  of  Alfonso  I  certainly  shall  run. 
Late  or  soon,  if  I  'scape  with  thee  the  King  must  seek  me  forth 
For  friendship's  sake;  if  not,  my  wealth,  a  fig  it  is  not  worth. 

VI  Then  said  the  Cid,  who  in  good  hour  had  girded  on  the  steel : 
' '  Oh  Martin  Antolinez,  thou  art  a  good  lance  and  leal. 

And  if  I  live,  hereafter  I  shall  pay  thee  double  rent. 
But  gone  is  all  my  silver,  and  all  my  gold  is  spent. 
And  well  enough  thou  seest  that  I  bring  naught  witli  me 
And  many  things  are  needful  for  my  good  company. 
Since  by  favor  I  win  nothing  by  might  then  must  I  gain. 
I  desire  by  thy  counsel  to  get  ready  coifers  twain. 


4  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

"With  the  sand  let  us  fill  them,  to  lift  a  burden  sore, 

And  cover  them  with  stamped  leather  with  nails  well  studded  o'er. 

VII  Ruddy  shall  be  the  leather,  well  gilded  every  nail. 
In  my  behalf  do  thou  hasten  to  Vidas  and  Raquel. 

Since  in  Burgos  they  forbade  me  aught  to  purchase,  and  the  King 
"Withdraws  his  favor,  unto  them  my  goods  I  cannot  bring. 
They  are  heavj^.  and  I  must  pawn  them  for  whatso  'er  is  right. 
That  Christians  may  not  see  it,  let  them  come  for  them  by  night. 
May  the  Creator  judge  it  and  of  all  the  Saints  the  choir. 
I  can  no  more,  and  I  do  it  against  my  own  desire." 

VIII  Martin  stayed  not.     Through  Burgos  he  hastened  forth, 

and  came 
To  the  Castle.    Vidas  and  Raquel,  he  demanded  them  by  name. 

IX  Raquel  and  Vidas  sate  to  count  their  goods  and  profits 
"When  up  came  Antolinez  the  prudent  man  and  true,      [through 

"How  now  Raquel  and  Vidas,  am  I  dear  unto  your  heart? 
I  would  speak  close."     They  tarried  not.     All  three  they  went 
"Give  me,  Raquel  and  Vidas,  your  hands  for  promise  sure  [apart. 
That  you  will  not  betray  me  to  Christian  or  to  Moor. 
I  shall  make  you  rich  forever.    You  shall  ne'er  be  needy  more. 
"When  to  gather  in  the  taxes  went  forth  the  Campeador, 
Many  rich  goods  he  garnered,  but  he  only  kept  the  best. 
Therefore  this  accusation  against  him  was  addressed. 
And  now  two  miglity  coffers  full  of  pure  gold  hath  he. 
"Why  lie  lost  tlii!  King's  favor  a  man  may  lightly  see. 
Up  has  left  his  halls  and  houses,  his  meadow  and  his  field. 
And  the  fhi'sts  he  cannot  bring  you  lest  he  should  stand  revealed. 
The  Carn])oador  those  coffers  will  deliver  to  your  trust. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  5 

And  do  you  lend  unto  him  whatsoever  may  be  just. 

Do  you  take  the  chests  and  keep  them,  but  swear  a  great  oath  here 

That  you  will  not  look  within  them  for  the  space  of  all  this  year. ' ' 

The  two  took  counsel: 

"Something  to  our  profit  must  inure 
In  all  barter.  He  gained  something  in  the  country  of  the  Moor 
When  he  marched  there,  for  many  goods  he  brought  with  him 

away. 
But  he  sleeps  not  unsuspected,  who  brings  coined  gold  to  pay. 
Let  the  two  of  us  together  take  now  the  coffers  twain. 
In  some  place  let  us  put  them  where  unseen  they  shall  remain. 

"What  the  lord  Cid  demandeth,  we  prithee  let  us  hear. 
And  what  will  be  our  usurj^  for  the  space  of  all  this  year?" 

Said  Martin  Antolinez  like  a  prudent  man  and  true: 

"Whatever  you  deem  right  and  just  the  Cid  desires  of  you. 
He  will  ask  little  since  his  goods  are  left  in  a  safe  place. 
But  needy  men  on  all  sides  beseech  the  Cid  for  grace. 
For  six  hundred  marks  of  money,  the  Cid  is  sore  bested. ' ' 

' '  We  shall  give  them  to  him  gladly, ' '  Raquel  and  Vidas  said. 

"  'Tis  night.    The  Cid  is  sorely  pressed.    So  give  the  marks 
Answered  Raquel  and  Vidas:  "Men  do  not  traffic  thus;    [to  us." 
But  first  they  take  their  surety  and  thereafter  give  the  fee." 
Said  Martin  Antolinez : 

"  So  be  it  as  for  me. 
Come  ye  to  the  great  Campeador  for  'tis  but  just  and  fair 
That  we  should  help  you  with  the  chests,  and  put  them  in  your 

care. 
So  that  neither  Moor  nor  Christian  thereof  shall  hear  the  tale." 

' '  Therewith  are  we  right  well  content, ' '  said  Vidas  and  Raquel, 
"You  shall  have  marks  six  hundred  when  we  bring  the  chests 

again." 

And  Martin  Antolinez  rode  forth  swiftly  with  the  twain. 


6  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

And  they  were  glad  exceeding.    0  'er  the  bridge  he  did  not  go, 
But  through  the  stream,  that  never  a  Burgalese  should  know 
Through  him  thereof.    And  now  behold  the  Campeador  his  tent. 
When  they  therein  had  entered  to  kiss  his  hands  they  bent. 
My  lord  the  Cid  smiled  on  them  and  unto  them  said  he : 

' '  Ha,  don  Raquel  and  Vidas,  you  have  forgotten  me ! 
And  now  must  I  get  hence  away  who  am  banished  in  disgrace, 
For  the  king  from  me  in  anger  hath  turned  away  his  face. 
I  deem  that  from  my  chattels  you  shall  gain  somewhat  of  worth. 
And  you  shall  lack  for  nothing  while  you  dwell  upon  the  earth." 

A-kissing  of  his  hands  forthwith  Raquel  and  Vidas  fell. 
Good  Martin  Antolinez  had  made  the  bargain  well, 
That  to  him  on  the  coffers  marks  six  hundred  they  should  lend. 
And  keep  them  safe,  moreover,  till  the  year  had  made  an  end. 
For  so  their  word  was  given  and  sworn  to  him  again, 
If  they  looked  ere  that  within  them,  forsworn  should  be  the  twain, 
Tiie  Cid  would  never  give  them  one  groat  of  usury. 

Said  Martin, 

"Let  the  chests  be  ta'en  as  swiftly  as  may  be, 
Take  them,  Raquel  and  Vidas,  and  keep  them  in  your  care. 
And  we  shall  e'en  go  with  you  that  the  money  we  may  bear, 
For  ere  the  first  cock  croweth  must  my  lord  the  Cid  depart." 

At  th<'  loading  of  the  coffers  you  had  seen  great  joy  of  heart. 
For  they  could  not  heave  the  great  chests  up  though  they  were 
Dear  was  the  minted  metal  to  Vidas  and  Raquel ;  [stark  and  hale. 
And  Ihcv  wouUl  be  rich  forever  till  their  two  lives  were  o'er. 

\     Tlir  liiiiid  of  my  ^'o()(l  lord  the  Cid,  Ra(iuél  had  kissed  once 

more : 
"Ha!  ('ampeador,  in  happy  hour  thou  girdedst  on  the  brand. 
Forth  from  Castile  thou  goest  to  the  men  of  a  strange  land. 
Such  is  become  thy  fortune  and  great  tiiy  gain  shall  be — 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  7 

Ah  Cid  I  kiss  thine  hands  again — but  make  a  gift  to  me 
Bring  me  a  Moorish  mantle  splendidly  wrought  and  red." 
"So  be  it.    It  is  granted,"  the  Cid  in  answer  said, 
' '  If  from  abroad  I  bring  it,  well  doth  the  matter  stand ; 
If  not,  take  it  from  the  coffers  I  leave  here  in  your  hand. ' ' 

And  then  Raquel  and  Vidas  bore  the  two  chests  away. 
With  Martin  Antolinez  into  Burgos  entered  they. 
And  with  fitting  care,  and  caution  unto  their  dwelling  sped. 
And  in  the  midmost  of  the  hall  a  plaited  quilt  they  spread. 
And  a  milk-white  cloth  of  linen  thereon  did  they  unfold. 
Three  hundred  marks  of  silver  before  them  Martin  told. 
And  forthwith  Martin  took  them,  no  whit  the  coins  he  weighed. 
Then  other  marks  three  hundred  in  gold  to  him  they  paid. 
Martin  had  five  esquires.     He  loaded  all  and  one. 
You  shall  hear  what  said  don  Martin  when  all  this  gear  was  done : 

"Ha!  don  Raquel  and  Vidas,  ye  have  the  coffers  two. 
"Well  I  deserve  a  guerdon,  who  obtained  this  prize  for  you." 

XI     Together  Vidas  and  Raquel  stepped  forth  apart  thereon : 
"Let  us  give  him  a  fair  present  for  our  profit  he  has  won. 

Good  Martin  Antolinez  in  Burgos  that  dost  dwell, 

We  would  give  thee  a  fair  present  for  thou  deservest  well. 

Therewith  get  breeches  and  a  cloak  and  mantle  rich  and  fine. 

Thou  hast  earned  it.    For  a  present  these  thirty  marks  are  thine. 

For  it  is  but  just  and  honest,  and,  moreover,  thou  wilt  stand 

Our  warrant  in  this  bargain  whereto  we  set  our  hand. ' ' 

Don  Martin  thanked  them  duly  and  took  the  marks  again. 

He  yearned  to  leave  the  dwelling  and  well  he  wished  the  twain. 

He  is  gone  out  from  Burgos.    0  'er  the  Arlanzon  he  went. 

And  him  who  in  good  hour  was  born  he  found  within  his  tent. 
The  Cid  arose  and  welcomed  him,  with  arms  held  wide  apart: 
"Thou  art  come  Antolinez,  good  vassal  that  thou  art! 


8  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

May  you  live  until  tlie  season  when  you  reap  some  gain  of  me." 
"Here  liave  I  come,  my  Compeador,  with  as  good  heed  as 

might  be. 
Thou  hast  won  marks  six  hundred,  and  thirty  more  have  I. 
Ho !  order  that  they  strike  the  tents  and  let  us  swiftly  fly. 
In  San  Pedro  de  Cardenas  let  us  hear  the  cock  ere  day. 
"We  shall  see  your  prudent  lad}',  but  short  shall  be  our  stay. 
And  it  is  needful  for  us  from  the  kingdom  forth  to  wend, 
For  the  season  of  our  suffrance  drawns  onward  to  its  end. ' ' 


XII     Thej'  spake  these  words  and  straightway  the  tent  upgath- 
]My  lord  the  Cid  rode  swiftly  with  all  his  host  of  men.   [ered  then, 
And  forth  unto  Saint  Mary 's  the  horse 's  head  turned  he, 
And  with  his  right  hand  crossed  himself: 

"God,  I  give  thanks  to  thee 
Heaven  and  Earth  that  rulest.    And  thy  favor  be  my  weal 
Holy  Saint  Mary,  for  forthright  must  I  now  quit  Castile. 
For  I  look  on  the  King  with  anger,  and  I  know  not  if  once  more 
I  shall  dwell  there  in  my  life-days.  But  may  thy  grace  watch  o'er 
My  parting,  Blessed  Virgin,  and  guard  me  night  and  day. 
If  thou  do  so  and  good  fortune  come  once  more  in  my  way, 
I  will  oifer  rich  oblations  at  thine  altar,  and  I  swear 
Most  solemnly  that  I  will  chant  a  thousand  masses  there. ' ' 


X\\\  And  tlic  lord  Cid  departed  fondly  as  a  good  man  may. 
Fijrthwith  tlicy  loosed  the  horses,  and  out  they  spurred  away. 
Said  good  Martin  Antolinez  in  Burgos  that  did  dwell: 

"I  would  see  my  lady  gladly  and  advise  my  people  well 
What  they  sliall  do  licrcaftcr.     It  matters  not  to  me 
Tliough  tlic  King  take  all.    Ere  sunrise  I  shall  come  unto  thee. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  9 

XIV     Martin  went  back  to  Burgos,  but  my  lord  the  Cid  spurred 
To  San  Pedro  of  Cárdena  as  hard  as  horse  could  run,  [on 

With  all  his  men  about  him  who  served  him  as  is  due. 
And  it  was  nigh  to  morning,  and  the  cocks  full  oft  they  crew, 
When  at  last  my  lord  the  Campeador  unto  San  Pedro  came. 
God 's  Christian  was  the  Abbot.    Don  Sancho  was  his  name ; 
And  he  was  saying  matins  at  the  breaking  of  the  day. 
With  her  five  good  dames  in  waiting  Xiména  there  did  pray. 
They  prayed  unto  Saint  Peter  and  God  they  did  implore : 
' '  0  thou  who  guidest  all  mankind,  succor  the  Campeador. ' ' 


XV     One  knocked  at  the  doorway,  and  they  heard  the  tidings 

then. 
God  wot  the  Abbot  Sancho  was  the  happiest  of  men. 
With  the  lights  and  with  the  candles  to  the  court  they  ran  forth- 
right, 
And  him  who  in  good  hour  was  born  they  welcomed  in  delight. 

''My  lord  Cid,"  quoth  the  Abbot,  ''Now  God  be  praised  of 

grace ! 
Do  thou  accept  my  welcome,  since  I  see  thee  in  this  place." 
And  the  Cid  who  in  good  hour  was  born,  thereunto  answered  he : 

"My  thanks  to  thee,  don  Sancho,  I  am  content  with  thee. 
For  myself  and  for  my  vassals  provision  will  I  make. 
Since  I  depart  to  exile,  these  fifty  marks  now  take. 
If  I  may  live  my  life-span,  they  shall  be  doubled  you. 
To  the  Abbey  not  a  groatsworth  of  damage  will  I  do. 
For  my  lady  do  I  give  you  an  hundred  marks  again, 
Herself,  her  dames  and  daughters  for  this  year  do  you  maintain. 
I  leave  two  daughters  with  you,  but  little  girls  they  be. 
In  thine  arms  keep  them  kindly.    I  commend  them  here  to  thee. 
Don  Sancho  do  thou  guard  them,  and  of  my  wife  take  care. 


10  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

If  thou  wantest  yet  and  lackest  for  anj'thing  whate'er, 
Look  well  to  their  provision,  thee  I  conjure  once  more, 
And  for  one  mark  that  thou  spendest  the  Abbey  shall  have  four. 
And  with  glad  heart  the  Abbot  his  full  assent  made  plain. 
And  lo !  the  Dame  Xiména  came  with  her  daughters  twain. 
Each  had  her  dame-in-waiting  who  the  little  maiden  bore. 
And  Dame  Xiména  bent  the  knee  before  the  Campeador. 
And  fain  she  was  to  kiss  his  hand,  and,  oh,  she  wept  forlorn! 
"A  boon  !  A  boon  !  my  Campeador.    In  a  good  hour  wast  thou 

born. 
And  because  of  wicked  slanderers  art  thou  banished  from  the  land. 


XVI     * '  Oh  Campeador  fair-bearded  a  favor  at  thy  hand ! 
Behold  I  kneel  before  thee,  and  thy  daughters  are  here  with  me, 
That  have  seen  of  daj-s  not  many,  for  children  yet  they  be. 
And  these  who  are  my  ladies  to  serve  my  need  that  know. 
Now  well  do  I  behold  it,  thou  art  about  to  go. 
Now  from  thee  our  lives  a  season  must  sunder  and  remove, 
Jiiit  unto  us  give  succor  for  sweet  Saint  Mary's  love." 

Tilt'  ('id,  the  nobly  bearded,  reached  down  unto  the  twain. 
And  in  his  anns  his  daughters  has  lifted  up  again, 
And  to  his  heart  lie  pressed  them,  so  great  his  love  was  grown, 
And  his  tears  fell  fast  and  bitter,  and  sorely  did  he  moan : 
"Xinit'iui  as  mine  own  spirit  I  loved  thee,  gentle  wife; 
lint  o'er  well  dost  thou  behold  it,  we  must  sunder  in  our  life. 
I  must  flee  and  thou  behind  me  here  in  the  land  must  stay. 
Please  flod  and  sweet  Saint  Mary  that  yet  upon  a  day 
I  sliuil  give  my  girls  in  marriage  with  mine  own  hand  rich  and 
And  thereafter  in  good  fortune  be  suffered  yet  to  dwell,        [well, 
May  tiiey  grant  ine,  wife,  inncli  lionored,  to  serve  thee  then  once 

more. ' ' 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  11 

XVII  A  mighty  feast  they  had  prepared  for  the  Great  Cam- 
The  bells  within  San  Pedro  they  clamor  and  they  peal,      fpeador. 
That  my  lord  the  Cid  is  banished  men  cry  throughout  Castile. 
And  some  have  left  their  houses,  from  their  lands  some  fled  away. 
Of  knights  an  hundred  and  fifteen  were  seen  upon  that  day, 

By  the  bridge  across  the  Arlanzon  together  they  came  o'er. 
One  and  all  were  they  calling  on  the  Cid  Campeador. 
And  Martin  Antolinez  has  joined  him  with  their  power. 
They  sought  him  in  San  Pedro,  who  was  born  in  a  good  hour. 

XVIII  When  that  his  host  was  growing,  heard  the  great  Cid  of 

Bivar, 
Swift  he  rode  forth  to  meet  them,  for  his  fame  would  spread  afar. 
When  they  were  come  before  him,  he  smiled  on  them  again. 
And  one  and  all  drew  near  him  and  to  kiss  his  hand  were  fain. 
My  lord  the  Cid  spake  gladly : 

"Now  to  our  God  on  high 
I  make  my  supplication  that  ere  I  come  to  die 
I  may  repay  your  service  that  house  and  land  has  cost, 
And  return  unto  you  double  the  possession  that  ye  lost." 

My  lord  the  Cid  was  merry  that  so  great  his  commons  grew, 
And  they  that  were  come  to  him  they  all  were  merry  too. 

Six  days  of  grace  are  over,  and  there  are  left  but  three, 
Three  and  no  more.    The  Cid  was  warned  upon  his  guard  to  be. 
For  the  King  said,  if  thereafter  he  should  find  him  in  the  land, 
Then  neither  gold  nor  silver  should  redeem  him  from  his  hand. 
And  now  the  day  was  over  and  night  began  to  fall 
His  cavaliers  unto  him  he  summoned  one  and  all : 

' '  Hearken,  my  noble  gentlemen.  And  grieve  not  in  your  care. 
Few  goods  are  mine,  yet  I  desire  that  each  should  have  his  share. 
As  good  men  ought,  be  prudent.  Wlien  the  cocks  crow  at  day, 
See  that  the  steeds  are  saddled,  nor  tarry  nor  delay. 


12  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

In  San  Pedro  to  say  matins  the  Abbot  good  will  be; 

He  will  say  mass  in  our  behalf  to  the  Holy  Trinity. 

And  when  the  mass  is  over,  from  the  abbey  let  us  wend, 

For  the  season  of  our  sufferance  draws  onward  to  an  end. 

And  it  is  sure,  moreover,  that  we  have  far  to  go. ' ' 

Since  so  the  Cid  had  ordered,  they  must  do  even  so. 

Night  passed,  and  came  the  morning.    The  second  cock  he  crew ; 

Forthwith  upon  the  horses  the  caparisons  they  threw. 

And  the  bells  are  rung  for  matins  with  all  the  haste  they  may. 
^I.v  lord  Cid  and  his  lady  to  church  they  went  their  way. 
On  the  steps  Xiména  cast  herself,  that  stood  the  shrine  before, 
And  to  God  passionately  she  prayed  to  guard  the  Campeador : 

' '  Our  Father  who  art  in  Heaven,  such  glory  is  in  Thee ! 
Thou  madest  firmament  and  earth,  on  the  third  day  the  sea. 
The  stars  and  moon  Thou  madest,  and  the  great  sun  to  warm. 
In  the  womb  of  Mary  Mother,  Thou  tookest  human  form. 
Thou  didst  appear  in  Bethlehem  as  was  Thy  will  and  choice. 
And  in  Thy  praise  and  glory  shepherds  lifted  up  their  voice. 
And  thither  to  adore  Thee  from  Arabia  afar 
Came  forth  tlie  three  kings,  Caspar,  Melchior  and  Balthasár. 
And  gold  and  myrrh  and  frankincense  they  proffered  eagerly. 
Thou  didst  spare  the  prophet  Jonah  when  he  fell  into  the  sea. 
And  Thou  didst  rescue  Daniel  from  the  lions  in  the  cave. 
And,  moreover,  in  Rome  city  Saint  Sebastian  didst  Thou  save. 
From  the  sinful  lying  witness  Saint  Susanna  didst  Thou  ward. 
And  years  two  and  tliirty  didst  Thou  walk  the  Earth,  our  Lord, 
Showing,  the  which  all  men  take  heed.  Thy  miracles  divine. 
Of  the  stone,  bread  Thou  madest,  and  of  the  water,  wine. 
Thou  didst  raise  up  Saint  Lazarus  according  to  Thy  will. 
Thou  didst  let  the  Hebrews  take  Thee.     On  Calvary  the  hill, 
In  the  place  Golgotha  by  name,  Thee,  Lord,  they  crucified. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  13 

And  the  two  thieves  were  with  Thee,  whom  they  hanged  on  either 
One  is  in  heaven,  the  other  he  came  not  thereunto.  [side 

A  miracle  most  mighty  on  the  cross  there  didst  Thou  do. 
Blind  was  Louginus;  never  had  seen  from  his  birth-year. 
The  side  of  our  Lord  Jesus  he  pierced  it  with  the  spear. 
Forth  the  blood  issued  swiftly,  and  ran  down  the  shaft  apace. 
It  stained  his  hands.    He  raised  them  and  put  them  to  his  face. 
Forthwith  his  eyes  were  opened  and  in  every  way  might  see. 
He  is  ransomed  from  destruction  for  he  straight  believed  on  Thee. 
From  the  sepulchre  Thou  rosest,  and  into  Hell  didst  go, 
According  to  Thy  purpose,  and  its  gates  didst  overthrow, 
To  bring  forth  the  Holy  Fathers.    And  King  of  Kings  Thou  art, 
And  of  all  the  world  the  Father,  and  Thee  with  all  my  heart 
Do  I  worship  and  acknowledge,  and  further  I  implore 
That  Saint  Peter  speed  my  prayer  for  the  Cid  Campeador, 
That  God  keep  his  head  from  evil ;  and  when  this  day  we  twain 
Depart,  then  grant  it  to  us  that  we  meet  in  life  again. ' ' 

And  now  the  prayer  is  over  and  the  mass  in  its  due  course. 
From  church  they  came,  and  already  were  about  to  get  to  horse. 
And  the  Cid  clasped  Xiména,  but  she,  his  hand  she  kissed. 
Sore  wept  the  Dame,  in  no  way  the  deed  to  do  she  wist. 
He  turned  unto  his  daughters  and  he  looked  upon  the  two : 
"To  the  Spiritual  Father,  have  I  commended  you. 
"We  must  depart.    God  knoweth  when  we  shall  meet  again. ' ' 
Weeping  most  sore — for  never  hast  thou  beheld  such  pain — 
As  the  nail  from  the  flesh  parteth,  from  each  other  did  they  part. 

And  Cid  with  all  his  vassals  disposed  himself  to  start, 
And  as  he  waited  for  them  anew  he  turned  his  head, 
Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  then  in  good  season  said : 

' '  Cid !  Where  is  now  thy  courage  ?    Upon  a  happy  day 
Wast  thou  born.    Let  us  bethink  us  of  the  road  and  haste  away. 
A  truce  to  this.    Rejoicing  out  of  these  griefs  shall  grow. 


14  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

The  God  who  gave  us  spirits  shall  give  us  aid  also. ' ' 

Don  Sancho  the  good  Abbot,  they  charged  him  o'er  again 
To  wat«h  and  ward  Xiména  and  likewise  her  daughters  twain, 
And  the  ladies  that  were  with  them.    That  he  shall  have  no  lack 
Of  guerdon  let  the  Abbot  know.    By  this  was  he  come  back, 
Then  out  spake  Alvar  Fañez:  "Abbot,  if  it  betide 
That  men  should  come  desirous  in  our  company  to  ride. 
Bid  tlu-m  follow  but  be  read}'  on  a  long  road  to  go 
Through  the  sown  and  through  the  desert;  they  may  overtake  us 
They  got  them  upon  horseback,  thej'  let  the  rein  go  slack,  [so." 
The  time  drew  near  when  on  Castile  the}^  needs  must  turn  the 
Spináz  de  Can,  it  was  the  place  where  the  Cid  did  alight,     [back. 
And  a  great  throng  of  people  welcomed  him  there  that  night. 
On  the  next  day  at  morning,  he  got  to  horse  once  more. 
And  forth  unto  his  exile  rode  the  true  Campeador. 
To  the  left  of  San  Estévan  the  good  town  did  he  wheel. 
He  marched  through  Alcobiella  the  frontier  of  Castile. 
O'er  the  highway  to  Quinéa  his  course  then  has  he  bent. 
Hard  by  Navas  de  Palos  o'er  Duero  stream  he  went. 
All  night  at  Figueruéla  did  my  lord  the  Cid  abide. 
And  very  many  people  welcomed  him  on  every  side. 

XIX  When  it  was  night  the  Cid  lay  down.    In  a  deep  sleep  he 
And  to  him  in  a  vision  came  the  angel  Gabriel :  [fell, 

"Ride,  Cid,  most  noble  Campeador,  for  never  yet  did  knight 
Hide  forth  upon  an  hour  whose  aspect  was  so  bright. 
While  thou  shalt  live  good  fortune  shall  be  with  thee  and  thine." 
When  he  awoke,  upon  iiis  face  he  made  the  holy  sign. 

XX  He  crossed  himself,  and  unto  God  his  soul  commended  then, 
He  was  glad  of  llie  vision  that  had  come  into  his  ken. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  15 

The  next  day  at  morning-  they  began  anew  to  wend. 
Be  it  known  their  term  of  sufferance  at  the  last  has  made  an  end. 
In  the  mountains  of  Miédes  the  Cid  encamped  that  night, 
With  the  towers  of  Atiénza  where  the  Moors  reign  on  the  right. 

XXI  'Twas  not  yet  come  to  sunset,  and  lingered  still  the  day. 
My  lord  the  Cid  gave  orders  his  henchmen  to  array. 

Apart  from  the  footsoldiers,  and  valiant  men  of  war, 
There  were  three  hundred  lances  that  each  a  pennon  bore. 

XXII  "Feed  all  the  horses  early,  so  may  our  God  you  speed. 
Let  him  eat  who  will ;  who  will  not,  let  him  get  upon  the  steed. 

We  shall  pass  the  mountain  ranges  rough  and  of  dreadful 
The  land  of  King  Alfonso  we  can  leave  behind  tonight,  [height. 
And  whosoe'er  will  seek  us  shall  find  us  ready  then." 

By  night  the  mountain  ranges  he  traversed  with  his  men. 
Morn  came.    From  the  hills  downward  they  were  about  to  fare. 
In  a  marvellous  great  forest  the  Cid  bade  halt  them  there, 
And  to  feed  the  horses  early ;  and  he  told  them  all  aright 
In  what  way  he  was  desirous  that  they  should  march  by  night. 
They  all  were  faithful  vassals  and  gave  assent  thereto; 
The  behests  of  their  great  captain  it  behooved  them  all  to  do. 
Ere  night,  was  every  man  of  them  unto  the  riding  fit. 
So  did  the  Cid  that  no  man  might  perchance  get  wind  of  it. 
They  marched  all  through  the  night-tide  and  rested  not  at  all. 
Near  Henares  a  town  standeth  that  Castejon  men  call. 
There  the  Cid  went  into  ambush  with  the  men  of  his  array. 

XXIII  He  couched  there  in  the  ambush  till  the  breaking  of  the 
This  Minaya  Alvar  Fanez  had  counselled  and  had  planned  :  [day. 

' '  Ha,  Cid,  in  happy  hour  thou  girdedst  on  the  brand. 


16  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Thou  with  an  hundred  henchmen  shalt  abide  to  hold  the  rear. 
Till  we  have  drawn  forth  Castejón  unto  the  bushment  here. 
But  give  me  now  two  hundred  men  on  a  harrying  raid  to  ride, 
"We  shall  win  much  if  thy  fortune  and  our  God  be  on  our  side. 

' '  Well  didst  thou  speak,  Minaya, ' '  the  Campeador  he  said, 
"Do  thou  with  the  two  hundred  ride  on  a  harrying  raid. 
"With  Alvar  Salvadorez,  Alvar  Alvarez  shall  advance, 
Likewise  Galind  Garciaz,  who  is  a  gallant  lance. 
Let  them  ride  beside  Minaya,  each  valiant  cavalier. 
Let  them  ride  unfearing  forward  and  turn  from  naught  for  fear. 
Out  unto  Guadalajara,  from  Hita  far  and  wide. 
To  Alcalá  the  city  forth  let  the  harriers  ride. 
That  they  bring  all  the  booty  let  them  be  very  sure, 
Let  tliem  leave  naught  behind  them  for  terror  of  the  Moor. 
Here  with  an  hundred  lances  in  the  rear  will  I  remain. 
And  capture  Castejón  good  store  of  provender  to  gain. 
If  tliou  come  in  any  danger  as  thou  ridest  on  the  raid. 
Send  swiftly  hither,  and  all  Spain  shall  say  how  I  gave  aid. ' ' 
Now  all  the  men  were  chosen  who  on  the  raid  should  ride. 
And  those  who  in  the  rearguard  with  the  lord  Cid  should  abide. 

And  now  the  dawn  was  breaking  and  morning  coming  on. 
And  tlie  sun  rising.    Very  God !  how  beautifully  it  shone ! 
All  men  arose  in  Castejón,  and  wide  they  threw  the  gates ; 
And  forth  they  went  to  oversee  their  farmlands  and  estates. 
All  wore;  gone  forth,  and  the  gates  stand  open  as  they  were 
And  but  a  little  remnant  were  left  in  Castejón.  [thrown, 

Round  the  city  were  the  people  scattered  the  whole  country  o'er. 
Then  forth  out  of  the  ambush  issued  the  Campeador, 
And  without  fail  round  Castejón  he  rushed  along  his  way. 
The  Moors,  both  men  and  women,  he  took  them  for  a  prey. 
And  of  their  flocks  as  many  as  thereabouts  tliere  strayed. 
My  lord  Cid  don  Rodrigo  straiglit  for  the  gateway  made. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  17 

And  they  that  held  it,  when  they  saw  that  swift  attack  begin, 
Fled  in  great  fear,  and  through  the  gates  Roy  Diaz  entered  in 
With  the  sword  naked  in  his  hand ;  and  fifteen  Moors  he  slew 
Wliom  he  ran  down.    In  Castejón  much  gold,  and  silver  too, 
He  captured.    Then  unto  him  his  knights  the  booty  brought 
To  my  lord  Cid  they  bore  it.    The  spoil  they  valued  naught. 

Lo !  the  two  hundred  men  and  three  to  plunder  that  rode  out, 
Sped  fearlessly,  and  ravaged  the  country  roundabout. 
For  the  banner  of  Minaj^a  unto  Alcalá  did  gleam. 
Then  they  bore  home  the  booty  up  the  Henares  stream 
Past  Guadalajara.    Booty  exceeding  great  they  bore 
Of  sheep  and  kine  and  vesture  and  of  other  wealth  good  store. 
Straightway  returned  Minaya.     None  dared  the  rear  attack. 
"With  the  treasure  they  had  taken  his  company  turned  back. 
Lo,  they  were  come  to  Castejón,  where  the  Campeador  abode. 
He  left  the  hold  well  guarded.    Out  from  the  place  he  rode. 
With  all  his  men  about  him  to  meet  them  did  he  come. 
And  with  arms  wide  asunder  welcomed  Minaya  home : 

"Thou  art  come,  Alvar  Fañez,  good  lance  thou  art  indeed. 
Whereso  I  send  thee,  in  such  wise  I  well  may  hope  to  speed. 
Put  straightway  all  together  the  spoil  both  thine  and  mine ; 
The  fifth  part  of  all,  Minaya,  an  thou  so  desire,  is  thine." 

XXIV    "Much  do  I  thank  thee  for  it,  illustrious  Campeador. 
With  what  thou  giv'st  me,  the  fifth  part  of  all  our  spoils  of  war, 
The  King  Alfonso  of  Castile  full  well  content  would  be. 
I  renounce  it  in  thy  favor ;  and  without  a  claim  to  thee. 
But  I  swear  to  God  who  dwelleth  in  the  high  firmament, 
That  till  upon  my  charger  I  gallop  in  content 
Against  the  Moors,  and  till  I  wield  both  spear  and  brand  again, 
And  till  unto  my  elbow  from  the  blade  the  blood  doth  drain 
Before  the  Cid  illustrious,  howe  'er  so  small  it  be. 


IS  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

I  will  not  take  the  value  of  a  copper  groat  from  thee. 
"When  through  me  some  mighty  treasure  thou  hast  at  thy  com- 
mand. 
I  will  take  thy  gift;  till  such  a  time,  all  else  is  in  thine  hand." 

XXV  They  heaped  the  spoil  together.     Pondered  the  Cid  my 
He  who  in  happy  hour  had  girded  on  the  sword,  [lord, 
How  tidings  of  his  raiding  to  the  King  would  come  ere  long, 
And  Alfonso  soon  would  seek  him  with  his  host  to  do  him  wrong. 
He  bade  his  spoil-dividers  make  a  division  fair, 

And  furthermore  in  %vriting  give  to  each  man  his  share. 
The  fortune  of  each  cavalier  had  sped  exceeding  well. 
One  hundred  marks  of  silver  to  each  of  them  there  fell. 
And  each  of  the  foot  soldiers  the  half  of  that  obtained. 
A  round  fifth  of  the  treasure  for  my  lord  the  Cid  remained. 
But  here  he  could  not  sell  it,  nor  in  gifts  give  it  away. 
No  captives,  men  or  women,  he  desired  in  his  array. 
And  with  the  men  of  Castejón  he  spoke  to  this  intent; 
To  Hita  and  Guadalajara  embassadors  he  sent 
To  find  how  high  the  ransom  of  the  fifth  part  they  would  rate. 
Even  as  they  assessed  it,  his  profit  would  be  great. 
Three  thousand  marks  of  silver  the  ]\Ioors  agreed  to  pay. 
The  Cid  was  plea-sed.    And  duly  was  it  paid  on  the  third  day. 

My  lord  the  Cid  determined  with  all  his  men  of  war 
That  there  within  the  castle  they  would  abide  no  more. 
And  lliat  they  would  have  held  it,  but  that  water  sore  it  lacked: 

' '  Ye  Moors  are  friendly  to  the  King ;  even  so  runs  the  pact, 
"With  his  host  will  he  pursue  us.    And  I  desire  to  flee 
From  Castejón;  Minaya  and  my  men,  so  hark  to  me; 

XXVI  "Nor  take  it  ill,  mine  utterance.     For  here  we  cannot 
TIk'  king  will  come  to  seek  us,  for  he  is  not  far  away;  [stay. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  19 

But  to  destroy  the  castle  seems  in  no  way  good  to  me. 
An  hundred  Moorish  women  in  that  place  I  will  set  free 
And  of  the  Moors  an  hundred.     Since  there,  as  it  befell, 
I  captured  them.     Hereafter  shall  they  all  speak  of  me  well. 
Ye  all  are  paid ;  among  you  is  no  man  yet  to  pay. 
Let  us  on  the  morrow  morning  prepare  to  ride  away. 
For  against  my  lord  Alfonso  the  strife  I  would  not  stir." 

What  the  Cid  said  was  pleasing  to  his  every  follower. 
Rich  men  they  all  departed  from  the  hold  that  they  had  ta'en. 
And  the  Moors  both  men  and  women  blessed  them  o  'er  and  o  'er 

again. 

Up  the  Henares  hastened  they  and  hard  they  rode  and  strong. 
They  passed  through  the  Alcarrias,  and  swift  they  marched 
By  the  Caverns  of  Anquita  they  hastened  on  their  way.     [along, 
They  crossed  the  stream.    Into  Taránz  the  great  plain  entered  they, 
And  on  down  through  that  region  as  hard  as  they  might  fare. 
Twixt  Fariza  and  Cetina  would  the  Cid  seek  shelter  there. 
And  a  great  spoil  he  captured  in  the  country  as  he  went. 
For  the  Moors  had  no  inkling  whatso'er  of  his  intent. 
On  the  next  day  marched  onward  the  great  Cid  of  Bivar, 
And  he  went  by  Alháma,  and  down  the  vale  afar. 
And  he  passed  Bubiérca  and  Ateca  likewise  passed, 
And  it  was  nigh  to  Alcocer  that  he  would  camp  at  last 
Upon  a  rounded  hillock  that  was  both  strong  and  high. 
They  could  not  rob  him  of  water ;  the  Jalón  it  flowed  hard  by. 
My  lord  Cid  don  Rodrigo  planned  to  storm  Alcocer. 

XXVII     He  pitched  a  strong  encampment  upon  the  hillock 

there. 
Some  men  were  toward  the  mountains,  some  by  the  stream  arrayed. 
The  gallant  Cid,  who  in  good  hour  had  girded  on  the  blade. 
Bade  his  men  near  the  water  dig  a  trench  about  the  height, 


20  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

That  no  man  might  surprise  them  by  day  nor  yet  by  night. 
So  miglit  men  know  that  there  the  Cid  had  taken  up  his  stand. 
XXVIII     And  thereupon  the  tidings  went  out  through  all  that 

land, 
How  my  lord  Cid  the  Campeador  had  there  got  footing  sure, 
He  is  gone  forth  from  the  Christians,  he  is  come  unto  the  Moor, 
In  his  presence  no  man  dareth  plough  the  farmlands  as  of  yore. 
Very  merry  with  his  vassals  was  the  great  Campeador. 
And  Alcocer  the  Castle  under  tribute  had  he  laid. 


XXTX    In  Alcocer  the  burghers  to  the  Cid  their  tribute  paid 

And  all  the  dwellers  in  Terrér  and  Teca  furthermore. 

And  the  townsmen  of  Calatayúd,  know  well,  it  irked  them  sore. 

Full  fifteen  weeks  he  tarried  there,  but  the  town  yielded  not. 

And  when  he  saw  it  forthwith  the  Cid  devised  a  plot. 

Save  one  left  pitched  behind  him,  he  struck  his  every  tent. 

Then  with  his  ensign  lifted,  down  the  Jalón  he  went, 

Witli  mail-shirts  on  and  girded  swords,  as  a  wise  man  should  him 

To  draw  forth  to  his  ambush  the  men  of  Alcocer.  [bear. 

And  when  they  saw  it,  name  of  God !    How  glad  was  everyone ! 

"The  provender  and  fodder  of  my  lord  the  Cid  are  gone. 

If  he  leaves  one  tent  behind  him,  the  burden  is  not  light 

Of  the  others  that  he  beareth.    He  'scapes  like  one  in  flight. 

Let  us  now  fall  upon  him,  great  profit  shall  we  gain. 

We  shall  win  a  mighty  booty  before  he  shall  be  ta'en 

By  them  who  have  their  dwelling  in  the  city  of  Terrér; 

For  if  l)y  chance  they  take  him,  in  the  spoil  we  shall  not  share. 

The  tribute  that  he  levied,  double  he  shall  restore." 

Forth  from  the  town  of  Alcocer  in  wild  haste  did  they  pour. 
Wlien  the  Cid  saw  them  well  without,  he  made  as  if  he  fled; 
"With  his  whole  host  in  confusion  down  the  Jalón  he  sped. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  2  i 

"The  prize   'scapes,"  cried  the  townsmen.     Forth  rushed  both 

great  and  small, 
In  the  lust  of  conquest  thinking  of  nothing  else  at  all. 
They  left  the  gates  unguarded,  none  watched  them  any  more. 
And  then  his  face  upon  them  turned  the  great  Campeador, 
He  saw  how  'twixt  them  and  their  hold  there  lay  a  mighty  space ; 
He  bade  them  turn  the  standard.    They  spurred  the  steeds  apace. 
' '  Ho,  cavaliers !    Now  swiftly  let  every  man  strike  in. 
By  the  Creator 's  favor  this  battle  we  shall  win. ' ' 
And  there  they  gave  them  battle  in  the  midmost  of  the  mead. 
Ah  God !  is  the  rejoicing  on  this  morning  great  indeed. 
The  Cid  and  Alvar  Fañez  went  spurring  on  ahead; 
Know  3^e  they  had  good  horses  that  to  their  liking  sped. 
'Twixt  the  townsmen  and  the  castle  swiftly  the  way  they  broke. 
And  the  Cid  's  henchmen,  merciless,  came  striking  stroke  on  stroke. 
In  little  space  three  hundred  of  the  Moors  they  there  have  slain. 
Loud  was  the  shouting  of  the  Moors  in  the  ambush  that  were  ta  'en. 
But  the  twain  left  them ;  on  they  rushed.    Right  for  the  hold  they 
And  at  the  gate  they  halted,  each  with  a  naked  blade.         [made 
Then  up  came  the  Cid's  henchmen  for  the  foe  were  all  in  flight. 
Know  ye  the  Cid  has  taken  Alcocer  by  such  a  sleight. 

XXX  Per  Vermudóz  came  thither  who  the  Cid's  flag  did  bear. 
On  the  high  place  of  the  city  he  lifted  it  in  air. 

Outspoke  the  Cid  Roy  Diaz.    Born  in  good  hour  was  he : 

*'To  God  in  Heaven  and  all  his  saints  great  thanks  and  praises 
We  shall  better  now  our  lodging  for  cavalier  and  steed."        [be. 

XXXI  Alvar  Fañez,  and  all  ye  my  knights,  now  hearken  and 
We  have  taken  with  the  castle  a  boot}'  manifold.  [give  heed. 
Dead  are  the  Moors.    Not  manv  of  the  living  I  behold. 


22  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Surely  we  cannot  sell  them  the  women  and  the  men ; 
And  as  for  striking  off  their  heads,  we  shall  gain  nothing  then. 
In  the  hold  let  us  receive  them,  for  we  have  the  upper  hand. 
"When  we  lodge  within  their  dwellings,  they  shall  do  as  we  com- 
mand. ' ' 

XXXII     The  Cid  with  all  his  booty  lieth  in  Alcocer. 

He  let  the  tent  be  sent  for,  that  he  left  behind  him  there. 

It  irked  the  men  of  Teca,  wroth  in  Terrér  were  they ; 

Know  ye  on  all  Calatayúd  sorely  the  thing  did  weigh. 

To  the  Sovereign  of  Valencia  they  sent  the  news  apace : 

How  that  the  King  Alfonso  hath  banished  in  disgrace 

One  whom  men  call  my  lord  the  Cid,  Roy  Diaz  of  Bivár, 

He  came  to  lodge  by  Alcocer,  and  strong  his  lodgings  are. 

He  drew  them  out  to  ambush ;  he  has  won  the  castle  there. 

"If  thou  aidest  not  needs  must  thou  lose  both  Teca  and  Teri'ér, 

Thou  wilt  have  lost  Calatayúd  that  cannot  stand  alone. 

All  things  will  go  to  ruin  on  the  banks  of  the  Jalón, 

And  round  about  Jilóca  on  the  far  bank  furthermore." 

Wlien  the  King  Tamin  had  heard  it,  his  heart  was  troubled 

sore: 

"Here  do  I  see  three  Moorish  kings.    Let  two  without  delay 
With  three  thousand  Moors  and  weapons  for  the  fight  ride  there 
Likewise  they  shall  be  aided  by  the  men  of  the  frontier,      [away; 
See  that  ye  take  him  living  and  bring  him  to  me  here. 
He  must  pay  for  the  realm's  trespass  till  I  be  satisfied." 

Three  thousand  Moors  have  mounted  and  fettled  them  to  ride. 
All  they  unto  Segórbe  have  come  to  lodge  that  night. 
The  next  day  they  got  ready  to  ride  at  morning  light, 
In  the  evening  unto  Celfa  they  came  the  night  to  spend. 
And  there  they  have  determined  for  tlie  borderers  to  send. 
Little  enow  they  tarried ;  from  every  side  they  came. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  23 

Then  they  went  forth  from  Celfa  (of  Canal  it  has  its  name), 
Never  a  whit  they  rested,  but  marched  tlie  livelong  day. 
And  that  night  unto  their  lodging  in  Calatayúd  came  they. 
And  they  sent  forth  their  heralds  through  the  length  of  all  the 
A  great  and  sovran  army  they  gathered  to  their  hand.        [land. 
With  the  two  Kings  Fáriz  and  Gálve  (these  are  the  names  they 
They  will  besiege  my  noble  lord  the  Cid  in  Alcocer.  [bear). 

XXXIII     They  pitched  the  tents  and  got  them  to  their  lodging 

there  and  then. 
Strong  grew  their  bands  for  thereabouts  was  found  great  store 
Moreover  all  the  outposts,  which  the  Moors  set  in  array,  [of  men. 
Marched  ever  hither  and  thither  in  armour  night  and  day. 
And  many  are  the  outposts,  and  great  that  host  of  war. 
From  the  Cid's  men,  of  water  have  they  cut  off  all  the  store. 
My  lord  the  Cid's  brave  squadrons  great  lust  to  fight  they  had, 
But  he  who  in  good  hour  was  born  firmly  the  thing  forbade. 
For  full  three  weeks  together  they  hemmed  the  city  in. 

XXXIV.     Wlien  three  weeks  were  well  nigh  over  and  the  fourth 

would  soon  begin. 

My  lord  Cid  and  his  henchmen  agreed  after  this  guise: 

' '  They  have  cut  us  off  from  water ;  and  our  food  must  fail  like- 

They  will  not  grant  unto  us  that  we  depart  by  night,  [wise. 

And  very  great  is  their  power  for  us  to  face  and  fight. 

My  knights  what  is  your  pleasure,  now  say,  that  we  shall  do  ? " 
Then  first  outspake  Minaya,  the  good  knight  and  the  true : 
"Forth  from  Castile  the  noble  unto  this  place  we  sped; 

If  with  the  Moors  we  fight  not,  they  will  not  give  us  bread. 

Here  are  a  good  six  hundred  and  some  few  more  beside. 

In  the  name  of  the  Creator  let  nothing  else  betide : 


24  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Let  US  smite  on  them  tomorrow. ' ' 

The  Campeador  said  he : 

"Minaya  Alvar  Fañez,  thy  speaking  liketh  me. 
Thou  hast  done  thj'self  much  honor,  as  of  great  need  thou  must." 

All  the  Moors  men  and  women  he  bade  them  forth  to  thrust 
That  none  his  secret  counsel  might  understand  aright. 
And  thereupon  tliey  armed  them  all  through  that  day  and  night. 
And  the  next  day  in  the  dawning  when  soon  the  sun  should  rise, 
The  Cid  was  armed  and  with  him  all  the  men  of  his  emprise. 
My  lord  tlie  Cid  spake  to  them  even  as  you  shall  hear. 

"Let  all  go  forth,  let  no  one  here  tarry  in  the  rear, 
Save  only  two  footsoldiers  the  gates  to  watch  and  shield. 
They  will  capture  this  our  castle,  if  we  perish  in  the  field ; 
But  if  we  win,  our  fortunes  shall  grow  both  great  and  fair. 
Per  Vermudóz,  my  banner  I  bid  thee  now  to  bear ; 
As  thou  art  very  gallant  do  thou  keep  it  without  stain. 
But  unless  I  so  shall  order  thou  shalt  not  loose  the  rein." 

He  kissed  the  Cid's  hand.     Forth  he  ran  the  battle-flag  to 

take. 
They  oped  the  gates,  and  outward  in  a  great  rush  did  they  break. 
And  all  the  outposts  of  the  Moor  beheld  them  coming  on, 
And  back  unto  the  army  forthwith  they  got  them  gone. 
What  haste  there  was  among  the  Moors!     To  arm  they  turned 

them  back. 
With  tlie  thunder  of  the  war-drum  the  earth  was  like  to  crack. 
There  might  you  see  Moors  arming,  that  swift  their  ranks  did 
Above  the  Moorish  battle  two  flags-in-chief  arose,  [close. 

But  of  their  mingling  pennons  the  number  who  shall  name  ? 
Now  all  the  squadrons  of  the  Moors  marching  right  onward  came, 
That  the  Cid  and  all  his  henclimen  they  might  capture  out  of  hand. 

"My  gallant  men  here  in  this  place  see  that  ye  firmly  stand, 
Let  no  man  leave  the  war-ranks  till  mine  order  I  declare." 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  25 

Per  Vermudóz,  he  found  it  too  hard  a  thing  to  bear, 
He  spurred  forth  with  the  banner  that  in  his  hand  he  bore : 

"May  the  Creator  aid  thee,  thou  true  Cid  Campeador, 
Through  the  line  of  battle  yonder  thy  standard  I  will  take; 
I  shall  see  how  you  bring  succor,  who  must  for  honor 's  sake. ' ' 
Said  the  Campeador :  "  Of  charity,  go  not  to  the  attack. ' ' 
For  answer  said  Per  Vermudóz :  "Is  naught  shall  hold  me  back." 
Spurring  the  steed  he  hurled  him  through  the  strong  line  of 

the  foes. 
The  serried  Moors  received  him  and  smote  him  mighty  blows, 
To  take  from  him  the  banner ;  yet  they  could  not  pierce  his  mail. 
Said  the  Campeador:  "Of  charity  go  help  him  to  prevail." 

XXXV  Before  their  breasts  the  war-shields  there  have  they 

buckled  strong. 
The  lances  with  the  pennons  they  laid  them  low  along, 
And  they  have  bowed  their  faces  over  the  saddlebow, 
And  thereaway  to  strike  them  with  brave  hearts  did  they  go. 
He  who  in  happy  hour  was  born  with  a  great  voice  did  call : 

' '  For  the  love  of  the  Creator,  smite  them,  my  gallants  all. 
I  am  Roy  Diaz  of  Bivar,  the  Cid,  the  Campeador." 

At  the  rank  where  was  Per  Vermudóz  the  mighty  strokes  they 
They  are  three  hundred  lances  that  each  a  pennon  bear.  [bore. 
At  one  blow  every  man  of  them  his  Moor  has  slaughtered  there, 
And  when  they  wheeled  to  charge  anew  as  many  more  were  slain. 

XXXVI  You  might  see  great  clumps  of  lances  lowered  and 

raised  again, 
And  many  a  shield  of  leather  pierced  and  shattered  by  the  stroke. 
And  many  a  coat  of  mail  run  through,  its  meshes  all  to-broke, 
And  many  a  white  pennon  come  forth  all  red  with  blood, 


26  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

And  running  without  master  full  many  a  charger  good. 
Cried  the  Moors  ' '  Mahound  ! ' '    The  Christians  shouted  on  Saint 

James  of  grace. 
On  the  field  ]\Ioors  thirteen  hundred  were  slain  in  little  space. 

XXXVII  On  his  gilded  selle  how  strongly  fought  the  Cid,  the 

splendid  knight, 
And  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  who  Zorita  held  of  right, 
And  brave  Martin  Antolinez  that  in  Burgos  did  abide, 
And  likewise  Muño  Gustioz,  the  Cid's  esquire  tried! 
So  also  Martin  IMuñoz  who  ruled  Montemayór, 
And  by  Alvar  Salvadorez  Alvar  Alvarez  made  war 
And  Galind  Garciaz  the  good  knight  that  came  from  Aragón, 
There  too  came  Felez  Muñoz  the  Cid  his  brother's  son. 
As  many  as  were  gathered  there  straightway  their  succor  bore. 
And  they  sustained  the  standard  and  the  Cid  Campeador. 

XXXVIII  Of  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  the  charger  they  have  slain ; 
The  gallant  bands  of  Christians  came  to  his  aid  amain. 

His  lance  was  split  and  straightway  he  set  hand  upon  the  glaive, 
What  though  afoot,  no  whit  the  less  he  dealt  the  buffets  brave. 
The  Cid,  Ro}'  Diaz  of  Castile,  saw  how  the  matter  stood. 
He  hastened  to  a  governor  that  rode  a  charger  good. 
With  his  right  hand  he  smote  him  such  a  great  stroke  witli  the 

sword 
Tliat  the  waist  he  clave ;  the  half  of  him  he  hurled  unto  the  sward. 
To  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  forthwith  he  gave  the  steed. 
"Right  arm  of  mine,  Minaya,  now  horse  thee  with  all  speed! 
I  shall  have  mighty  succor  from  thee  this  very  day. 
The  Moors  leave  not  the  battle;  firm  standeth  their  an'a}^ 
And  surely  it  behooves  us  to  stonn  tlieir  line  once  more." 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  27 

Sword  in  hand  rode  Minaya;  on  their  host  he  made  great  war, 
Wliom  he  o'ertook  soever,  even  to  death  he  did. 
He  who  was  born  in  happy  hour,  Roy  Diaz,  my  lord  Cid, 
Thrice  smote  against  King  Fáriz.     Twice  did  the  great  strokes 

fail, 
But  the  third  found  the  quarry.    And  down  his  shirt  of  mail 
Streamed  the  red  blood.    To  leave  the  field  he  wheeled  his  horse 
By  that  one  stroke  the  foeman  were  conquered  in  the  fray.  [away. 

XXXIX     And  Martin  Ántolinez  a  heavy  stroke  let  drive 

At  Gálve.    On  his  helmet  the  rubies  did  he  rive ; 

The  stroke  went  through  the  helmet  for  it  reached  unto  the  flesh. 

Be  it  known,  he  dared  not  tarry  for  the  man  to  strike  afresh. 

King  Fáriz  and  King  Gálve,  but  beaten  men  are  they. 

What  a  great  da}^  for  Christendom !     On  every  side  away 

Fled  the  Moors.  My  lord  Cid  's  henchmen  still  striking  gave  them 

Into  Terror  came  Fáriz,  but  the  people  of  the  place  [chase. 

Would  not  receive  King  Gálve.    As  swiftly  as  he  might 

Onward  unto  Calatajnid  he  hastened  in  his  flight. 

And  after  him  in  full  pursuit  came  on  the  Campeador. 

Till  they  came  unto  Calatayiid  that  chase  they  gave  not  o'er. 

XL    Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  hath  a  horse  that  gallops  well. 

Of  the  Moors  four  and  thirty  that  day  before  him  fell. 

And  all  his  arm  was  bloody,  for  'tis  a  biting  sword ; 

And  streaming  from  his  elbow  downward  the  red  blood  poured. 

Said  Minaya:  "Now  am  I  content;  well  Avill  the  rumor  run 

To  Castile,  for  a  pitched  battle  my  lord  the  Cid  hath  won." 

Few  Moors  are  left,  so  many  have  already  fallen  dead. 

For  they  who  followed  after  slew  them  swiftly  as  they  fled. 

He  who  was  born  in  happy  hour  came  with  his  host  once  more. 


28  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

On  his  noble  battle-charger  rode  the  great  Campeador. 
His  coif  was  wrinkled.    Name  of  God !  but  his  great  beard  was 

fair. 
His  mail-hood  on  his  shoulders  lay.  His  sword  in  hand  he  bare. 
And  he  looked  upon  his  henchmen  and  saw  them  drawing  nigh : 
"Since  we  ha'  won  such  a  battle,  glory  to  God  on  high!" 
The  Cid  his  henchmen  plundered  the  encampment  far  and 
Of  the  shields  and  of  the  weapons  and  other  wealth  beside,  [wide 
Of  the  Moors  they  captured  there  were  found  five  hundred  steeds 

and  ten. 
And  there  was  great  rejoicing  among  those  Christian  men, 
And  the  lost  of  their  number  were  but  fifteen  all  told. 
They  brought  a  countless  treasure  of  silver  and  of  gold. 
Enriched  were  all  those  Christians  with  the  spoil  that  they  had 
And  back  unto  their  castle  they  restored  the  Moors  again ;  [ta'en. 
To  give  them  something  further  he  gave  command  and  bade. 
With  all  his  train  of  henchmen  the  Cid  was  passing  glad. 
He  gave  some  monies,  some  much  goods  to  be  divided  fair, 
And  full  an  hundred  horses  fell  to  the  Cid's  fifth  share. 
God's  name!  his  every  vassal  nobly  did  he  requite. 
Not  only  the  footsoldiers  but  likewise  every  knight. 
He  who  in  happy  hour  was  born  wrought  well  his  government. 
And  all  wliom  he  brought  with  him  therewith  were  well  content. 

"Harken  to  me,  Minaya,  my  own  right  arm  art  thou. 
Of  tlie  wealth,  wherewith  our  army  the  Creator  did  endow, 
Take  in  thine  hand  whatever  thou  deemest  good  to  choose. 
To  Ca.stile  I  fain  would  send  thee  to  carrj^  there  the  news 
Of  our  triumph.    To  Alphonso  the  King  who  banished  me 
A  gift  of  thirty  horses  I  desire  to  send  with  thee. 
Saddled  is  every  charger,  each  steed  is  bridled  well. 
Tliorc  liaiigrth  a  good  war-sword  at  the  pommel  of  each  selle." 
Said  .Minaya  Alvar  Fafiez:  "I  will  do  it  with  good  cheer. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  29 

XLI     "Of  the  gold  and  the  fine  silver,  behold  a  bootful  here. 
Nothing  thereto  is  lacking.    Thou  shalt  pay  the  money  down 
At  Saint  Mary's  Church  for  masses  fifty  score  in  Burgos  town; 
To  my  wife  and  to  my  daughters  the  remainder  do  thou  bear. 
Let  them  offer  day  and  night  for  me  continually  their  prayer. 
If  I  live,  exceeding  wealthy  all  of  those  dames  shall  be. 

XLII     Minaya  Alvar  Fañez,  therewith  content  was  he. 
They  made  a  choice  of  henchmen  along  with  him  to  ride. 
They  fed  the  steeds.    Already  came  on  the  eventide. 
Roy  Diaz  would  decide  it  with  his  companions  leal. 

XLIII    ' '  Dost  thou  then  go,  Minaya,  to  the  great  land  of  Castile  ? 
And  unto  our  well-wishers  with  a  clear  heart  canst  thou  saj' : 
*God  granted  us  His  favor,  and  we  conquered  in  the  fra}'?' 
If  returning  thou  shalt  find  us  here  in  this  place,  'tis  well ; 
If  not,  where  thou  shalt  hear  of  us,  go  seek  us  where  we  dwell. 
For  we  must  gain  our  daily  bread  with  the  lance  and  with  the 
Since  otherwise  we  perish  here  in  a  barren  land.  [brand, 

And  therefore  as  methinketh,  we  must  get  hence  away." 

XLIV     So  was  it,  and  Minaya  went  at  the  break  of  day. 
But  there  behind  the  Campeador  abode  with  all  his  band. 
And  waste  was  all  the  country,  an  exceeding  barren  land. 
Each  day  upon  my  lord  the  Cid  there  in  that  place  the}'  spied, 
The  Moors  that  dwelt  on  the  frontier  and  outlanders  beside. 
Healed  was  King  Fáriz.     With  him  they  held  a  council  there, 
The  folk  that  dwelt  in  Teca  and  the  townsmen  of  Terrér, 
And  the  people  of  Calatayud,  of  the  three  the  fairest  town. 
In  such  wise  have  they  valued  it  and  on  parchment  set  it  down 
That  for  silver  marks  three  thousand  Alcocer  the  Cid  did  sell. 


30  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

XLV    Roy  Diaz  sold  them  Alcocer.     How  excellently  well 
He  paid  his  vassals !  Horse  and  foot  he  made  them  wealthy  then, 
And  a  poor  man  you  could  not  find  in  all  his  host  of  men. 
In  joy  he  dwelleth  aye  who  serves  a  lord  of  noble  heart. 

XLVI     When  my  lord  the  Cid  was  ready  from  the  Castle  to 

The  Moors  both  men  and  women  cried  out  in  bitter  woe  :  [depart, 

"Lord  Cid  art  thou  departing?    Still  may  our  prayers  go 

Before  .thy  path,  for  with  thee  we  are  full  well  content. ' ' 

For  my  lord  the  great  Cid  of  Bivar,  when  from  Alcocer  he  went, 

The  Moors  both  men  and  women  made  lamentation  sore. 

He  lifted  up  the  standard,  forth  marched  the  Campeador. 

Down  the  Jalón  he  hastened,  on  he  went  spurring  fast. 

He  saw  birds  of  happy  omen,  as  from  the  stream  he  passed. 

Glad  were  the  townsmen  of  Terrér  that  he  had  marched  away, 

And  the  dwellers  in  Calatayúd  were  better  pleased  than  they. 

But  in  the  town  of  Alcocer  'twas  grief  to  all  and  one. 

For  many  a  deed  of  mercy  unto  them  the  Cid  had  done. 

My  lord  the  Cid  spurred  onward.    Forward  apace  he  went  ; 

'Twas  near  to  the  hill  Monreál  that  he  let  pitch  his  tent. 

Great  is  the  hill  and  wondrous  and  very  high  likewise. 

Be  it  known  from  no  quarter  doth  he  need  to  dread  surprise. 

And  first  he  forced  Doróca  tribute  to  him  to  pay. 

And  then  levied  on  Molina  on  the  other  side  that  lay, 

Teruel  o  'er  against  him  to  submit  he  next  compelled ; 

And  lastly  Celfa  de  Canal  within  his  power  he  held. 

XLVn     May  my  lord  the  Cid,  Roy  Diaz,  at  all  times  God's  favor 
Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  has  departed  to  Castile.  [feel. 

To  the  King  thirty  horses  for  a  present  did  he  bring. 
And  when  lie  had  beheld  them  beautifully  smiled  the  King : 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  31 

''Who  gave  thee  these,  Minaya,  so  prosper  thee  the  Lord?" 
"Even  the  Cid  Roy  Diaz,  who  in  good  hour  girded  sword. 
Since  you  banished  him,  by  cunning  has  he  taken  Alcocer. 
To  the  King  of  Valencia  the  tidings  did  they  bear. 
He  bade  that  they  besiege  him;  from  every  water-well 
They  cut  him  off.    He  sallied  forth  from  the  citadel. 
In  the  open  field  he  fought  them,  and  he  beat  in  that  affray 
Two  Moorish  kings.    He  captured,  sire,  a  very  mighty  prey. 
Great  King,  this  gift  he  sends  thee.     Thine  hands  and  feet  also 
He  kisses.    Show  him  mercy ;  such  God  to  thee  shall  show. ' ' 
Said  the  King : 

' '  'Tis  over  early  for  one  banished,  without  grace 
In  his  lord's  sight,  to  receive  it  at  the  end  of  three  week's  space. 
But  since  'tis  Moorish  plunder  to  take  it  I  consent. 
That  the  Cid  has  taken  such  a  spoil,  I  am  full  well  content. 
Beyond  all  this  Minaya  thine  exemption  I  accord. 
For  all  thy  lands  and  honors  are  unto  thee  restored. 
Go  and  come !    Henceforth  my  favor  I  grant  to  thee  once  more. 
But  to  thee  I  say  nothing  of  the  Cid  Campeador. 


XLVIII     "Beyond  this,  Alvar  Fañez,  I  am  fain  to  tell  it  thee 
That  whosoever  in  my  realm  in  that  desire  may  be, 
Let  them,  the  brave  and  gallant,  to  the  Cid  betake  them  straight. 
I  free  them  and  exempt  them  both  body  and  estate. ' ' 
Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  has  kissed  the  King's  hands  twain: 

' '  Great  thanks,  as  to  my  rightful  lord  I  give  thee,  King,  again. 
This  dost  thou  now,  and  better  yet  as  at  some  later  hour. 
We  shall  labor  to  deserve  it,  if  God  will  give  us  power. ' ' 
Said  the  King:  "Minaya,  peace  for  that.    Take  through  Castile 

thy  way. 
None  shall  molest.    My  lord  the  Cid  seek  forth  without  delay. ' ' 


32  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

XLIX     Of  him  I  fain  would  tell  you  in  good  hour  that  girt  the 

blade. 
The  hill,  where  his  encampment  in  that  season  he  had  made, 
While  the  Moorish  folk  endureth,  while  there  are  Christians  still, 
Shall  they  ever  name  in  writing  'My  Lord  the  Cid,  his  Hill.' 
Wliile  he  was  there  great  ravage  in  all  the  land  he  made, 
Under  tribute  the  whole  valley  of  the  Martin  he  laid. 
And  unto  Zaragoza  did  the  tidings  of  him  go, 
Nor  pleased  the  Moors ;  nay  rather  they  were  filled  with  grievous 
For  fifteen  weeks  together  my  lord  Cid  there  did  stay.         [woe. 
When  the  good  knight  saw  how  greatly  Minaya  did  delay, 
Then  forth  with  all  his  henchmen  on  a  night  march  he  hied. 
And  he  left  all  behind  him,  and  forsook  the  mountain  side, 
Beyond  the  town  of  Teruel  good  don  Eodrigo  went. 
In  the  pine  grove  of  Tévar  Roy  Diaz  pitched  his  tent. 
And  all  the  lands  about  him  he  harried  in  the  raid, 
And  on  Zaragoza  city  a  heavy  tribute  laid. 

When  this  he  had  accomplished  and  three  weeks  had  made 
Out  of  Castile  Minaya  unto  the  Cid  did  wend.  [an  end, 

Two  hundred  knights  were  with  him  that  had  belted  on  the 

brands. 
Know  ye  well  that  there  were  many  foot-soldiers  in  his  bands. 
When  the  Cid  saw  Minaya  draw  near  unto  his  view. 
With  his  horse  at  a  full  gallop  to  embrace  the  man  he  flew. 
He  kissed  his  mouth,  his  very  eyes  in  that  hour  kissed  the  Cid. 
And  then  all  things  he  told  him,  for  naught  from  him  he  hid. 
Then  beautifully  upon  liim  smiled  the  good  Campeador: 
"Ood  and  his  righteousness  divine  be  greatly  praised  therefor. 
While  thou  slialt  live,  Minaya,  well  goeth  this  my  game." 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  33 

L  God!  How  happy  was  the  army  that  thus  Minaya  came, 
For  of  them  they  left  behind  them  he  brought  the  tidings  in, 
From  comrade  and  from  brethren  and  the  foremost  of  their  kin. 

LI     But  God !    What  a  glad  aspect  the  Cid  fair-bearded  wore 

That  duly  had  Minaya  paid  for  masses  fifty  score. 

And  of  his  wife  and  daughters  all  of  the  state  displayed ! 

God !    How  content  was  he  thereat !    Wliat  noble  cheer  he  made ! 

* '  Ha !    Alvar  Fañez,  many  now  may  thy  life-days  be. 
What  fair  despatch  thou  madest !  Thou  art  worth  more  than  we, ' ' 

LII     And  he  who  in  good  hour  was  bom  tarried  in  no  way  then, 
But  he  took  knights  two  >  indred,  and  all  were  chosen  men ; 
And  forth  when  fell  the  evening  a-raidiug  did  they  haste. 
At  Alcañiz  the  meadows  the  Campeador  laid  waste. 
And  gave  all  places  round  about  to  ravage  and  to  sack. 
On  the  third  day  to  whence  he  came  the  Cid  again  turned  back. 

LIII     Thro'  all  the  country  roundabout  have  the  tidings  of  them 
It  grieved  the  men  of  Huesca  and  the  people  of  Monzón,     [flown. 
Glad  were  they  in  Zaragoza  since  the  tribute  they  had  paid. 
For  outrage  at  Roy  Diaz's  hand  no  whit  were  they  afraid. 

LIV  Then  back  to  their  encampment  they  hastened  with  their 
All  men  were  very  merry  for  a  mighty  spoil  had  they.  [prey. 
The  Cid  was  glad  exceeding ;  Alvar  Fañez  liked  it  well.  [dwell : 
But  the  great  Cid  smiled,  for  there  at  ease  he  could  not  bear  to 

' '  Ha !    All  my  knights,  unto  you  the  truth  will  I  confess : 
Wlio  still  in  one  place  tarries,  his  fortune  will  grow  less. 
Let  us  tomorrow  morning  prepare  to  ride  apace, 
Let  us  march  and  leave  forever  our  encampment  in  this  place." 


34  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Unto  the  pass  of  Alucát  the  lord  Cid  got  him  gone. 

Then  to  Huesca  and  to  Montalbán  he  hastily  marched  on. 

And  ten  full  days  together  on  that  raid  they  were  to  ride. 

The  tidings  to  all  quarters  went  flying  far  and  wide, 

How  that  the  Exile  from  Castile  great  harm  to  them  had  done. 


LV     Afar  into  all  quarters  did  the  tidings  of  him  run. 
They  brought  the  message  to  the  Count  of  Barcelona's  hand, 
How  that  the  Cid  Roy  Diaz  was  o'errunning  all  the  land. 
He  was  wroth.    For  a  sore  insult  the  tiding  did  he  take. 


LVI     The  Count  was  a  great  braggart  and  an  empty  word  he 

"Great  wrongs  he  put  upon  me,  he  of  Bivár,  the  Cid.  [spake : 
Within  my  very  palace  much  shame  to  me  he  did : 
He  gave  no  satisfaction  though  he  struck  my  brother's  son; 
And  the  lands  in  my  keeping  now  doth  he  over-run. 
I  challenged  him  not ;  our  pact  of  peace  I  did  not  overthrow ; 
But  since  }ie  seeks  it  of  me,  to  demand  it  I  will  go. ' ' 

He  gathered  there  his  powers  that  were  exceeding  strong, 
Great  bands  of  Moors  and  Christians  to  his  array  did  throng. 
After  the  lord  Cid  of  Bivár  they  went  upon  their  way, 
Three  nights  and  days  together  upon  the  march  were  they. 
At  length  in  Tévar's  pine  grove  the  Cid  they  have  o'erta'en. 
So  strong  were  they  that  captive  to  take  him  were  they  fain. 

My  lord  Cid  don  Rodrigo  bearing  great  spoil  he  went. 
From  the  ridge  unto  the  valley  he  had  finished  the  descent. 
And  in  that  place  they  bore  him  Count  don  Remónd  his  word. 
My  lord  Cid  sent  unto  him  when  the  message  he  had  heard : 

"Say  to  the  Count  that  it  were  well  his  anger  now  should 
No  goods  of  his  I  carry.    Let  him  leave  me  in  peace."         [cease. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  35 

Thereto  the  Count  gave  answer: 

"Not  so  the  matter  ends. 
For  what  was  and  is  of  evil  he  shall  make  me  full  amends. 
The  Exile  shall  know  swiftly  whom  he  has  sought  to  slight." 

Back  hastened  the  embassador  as  swiftly  as  he  might. 
And  then  my  lord  Cid  of  Bivár  knew  how  the  matter  lay, 
And  that  without  a  battle  they  could  not  get  away. 

LVII     '  *  Ha !  lay  aside  your  booty  now  every  cavalier, 

And  take  in  hand  your  weapons,  and  get  on  your  battle-gear. 

Count  don  Remónd  against  us  will  deliver  battle  strong; 

Great  bands  of  Moors  and  Christians  he  brings  with  him  along. 

He  will  not  for  any  reason  without  fighting  let  us  go. 

Here  let  us  have  the  battle  since  they  pursue  us  so. 

So  get  you  on  your  armour  and  girth  the  horses  tight. 

Down  the  hill  they  come  in  hosen  and  their  saddles  are  but  light, 

And  loose  their  girths.    Each  man  of  us  has  a  Galician  selle, 

And  moreover  with  tlie  jackboots  are  our  hosen  covered  well. 

We  should  beat  them  though  we  numbered  but  fivescore  cavaliers. 

Before  they  reach  the  level,  let  us  front  them  with  the  spears. 

For  each  you  strike  three  saddles  thereby  shall  empty  go. 

Who  was  the  man  he  hunted,  Remónd  Berenguél  shall  know 

This  day  in  Tévar's  pine  grove,  who  would  take  from  me  my 

prey. ' ' 

LVIII    When  thus  the  Cid  had  spoken,  were  all  in  good  array ; 
They  had  taken  up  their  weapons  and  each  had  got  to  horse. 
They  beheld  the  Frankish  armj^  down  the  hill  tliat  held  its  course. 
And  at  the  end  of  the  descent,  close  to  the  level  land, 
The  Cid  who  in  good  hour  was  born,  to  charge  them  gave  com- 
mand. 


36  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Aud  this  did  his  good  henchmen  perform  with  all  their  heart; 
"VTith  the  pennons  and  the  lances  they  nobly  played  their  part, 
Smiting  at  some,  and  others  overthrowing  in  their  might. 
He  who  was  born  in  happy  hour  has  conquered  in  the  fight. 
There  the  Count  don  Remónd  he  took  a  prisoner  of  war. 
And  Colada  the  war-falchion  worth  a  thousand  marks  and  more. 


LIX    By  the  victory  there  much  honor  unto  his  beard  he  did. 
And  then  the  Count  to  his  own  tent  was  taken  by  the  Cid. 
He  bade  his  squires  guard  him.    From  the  tent  he  hastened  then. 
From  every  side  together  about  him  came  his  men. 
The  Cid  was  glad,  so  mighty  were  the  spoils  of  that  defeat. 
For  the  lord  Cid  don  Rodrigo  they  prepared  great  stock  of  meat. 
But  namely  the  Count  don  Remónd,  thereby  he  set  no  store. 
To  him  they  brought  the  viands,  and  placed  them  him  before. 
He  would  not  eat,  and  at  them  all  he  mocked  with  might  and 
"I  will  not  eat  a  mouthful  for  all  the  wealth  in  Spain ;  [main : 
Rather  will  I  lose  my  body  and  forsake  my  soul  forby. 
Since  beaten  in  the  battle  by  such  tattered  louts  was  I." 


LX    My  lord  the  Cid  Roy  Diaz  you  shall  hearken  what  he  said ; 

' '  Drink  of  the  wine  I  prithee.  Count,  eat  also  of  the  bread. 
If  this  tliou  dost,  no  longer  shalt  thou  be  a  captive  then; 
If  not,  then  shalt  thou  never  see  Christendom  again." 


LXI     "Do  thfiu  cat,  don  Rodrigo,  and  prepare  to  slumber  sweet. 
For  myself  I  will  lot  perish,  and  nothing  will  I  eat." 

And  in  no  way  were  tlicy  able  to  prevail  till  the  third  day, 
Nor  niaki-  liim  cat  a  moutliful  wliilc  they  portioned  the  great  prey. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  37 

LXII     "Ho!  Count,  do  thou  eat  somewhat,"  even  so  my  lord 

Cid  spoke, 
"If  thou  dost  not  eat,  thou  shalt  not  look  again  on  Christian  folk; 
If  in  such  guise  thou  eatest  that  my  will  is  satisfied. 
Thyself,  Count,  and,  moreover,  two  noblemen  beside 
"Will  I  make  free  of  your  persons  and  set  at  liberty." 

And  when  the  Count  had  heard  it  exceeding  glad  was  he. 
* '  Cid,  if  thou  shalt  perform  it,  this  promise  thou  dost  give, 
Thereat  I  much  shall  marvel  as  long  as  I  shall  live," 
"Eat  then,  oh  Count;  when  fairly  thy  dinner  thou  hast  ta'en 
I  will  then  set  at  liberty  thee  and  the  other  twain. 
But  what  in  open  battle  thou  didst  lose  and  I  did  earn, 
Know  that  not  one  poor  farthing's  worth  to  thee  will  I  return, 
For  I  need  it  for  these  henchmen  who  hapless  follow  me. 
They  shall  be  paid  with  what  I  win  from  others  as  from  thee. 
"With  the  Holy  Father's  favor  we  shall  live  after  this  wise, 
Like  banished  men  who  have  not  any  grace  in  the  King's  eyes." 

Glad  was  the  Count.    For  water  he  asked  his  hands  to  lave. 
And  that  they  brought  before  him,  and  quickly  to  him  gave. 
The  Count  of  Barcelona  began  to  eat  his  fill 
"With  the  men  the  Cid  had  given  him,  and  God !  with  what  a  will ! 
He  who  in  happy  hour  was  born  unto  the  Count  sate  near : 

"Ha !  Count,  if  now  thou  dinest  not  with  excellent  good  cheer. 
And  to  my  satisfaction,  here  we  shall  still  delay, 
And  we  twain  in  no  manner  shall  go  forth  hence  awa3^" 
Then  said  the  Count : ' '  Right  gladly  and  according  to  my  mind ! ' ' 
"With  his  two  knights  at  that  season  in  mighty  haste  he  dined. 
My  lord  the  Cid  was  well  content  that  all  his  eating  ej-ed, 
For  the  Count  don  Remond  his  hands  exceeding  nimbly  plied. 

"If  thou  art  pleased,  my  lord  the  Cid,  in  guise  to  go  are  we. 
Bid  them  bring  to  us  our  horses ;  we  will  mount  speedily. 
Since  I  was  first  Count,  never  have  I  dined  with  will  so  glad, 


38  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Nor  shall  it  be  forgotten  what  joy  therein  I  had." 

Thej'  gave  to  them  three  palfreys.    Each  had  a  noble  selle. 

Good  robes  of  fur  they  gave  them,  and  mantles  fair  as  well. 

Count  don  Kemónd  rode  onward  with  a  knight  on  either  side. 

To  the  camp's  end  the  Castilian  along  with  them  did  ride. 

"Ha!  Count,  forth  thou  departest  to  freedom  fair  and  frank; 

For  what  thou  hast  left  with  me  I  have  thee  now  to  thank. 

If  desire  to  avenge  it  is  present  to  thy  mind, 

Send  unto  me  beforehand  when  thou  comest  me  to  find. 

Either  that  thou  wilt  leave  thy  goods  or  part  of  mine  wilt  seize." 
"Ha!  my  lord  Cid,  thou  art  secure,  be  wholly  at  thine  ease. 

Enough  have  I  paid  to  thee  till  all  this  year  be  gone. 

As  for  coming  out  to  find  thee,  I  will  not  think  thereon," 

LXIII     The  Count  of  Barcelona  spurred  forth.    Good  speed  he 

made. 
Turning  his  head  he  looked  at  them,  for  he  was  much  afraid 
Lest  my  lord  the  Cid  repent  him ;  the  which  the  gallant  Cid 
Would  not  have  done  for  all  the  world.    Base  deed  he  never  did. 
The  Count  is  gone.    He  of  Bivár  has  turned  him  back  again ; 
He  began  to  be  right  merry,  and  he  mingled  with  his  train. 
Most  great  and  wondrous  was  the  spoil  that  they  had  won  in  war. 
So  rich  were  his  companions  that  they  knew  not  what  they  bore. 


CANTAR  II 

THE  MARRIAGE  OF  THE  CID'S  DAUGHTERS 

LXIV     Here  of  my  lord  Cid  of  Bivár  begins  anew  the  Song. 

Within  the  pass  of  Alucát  my  lord  Cid  made  him  strong, 

He  has  left  Zaragoza  and  the  lands  that  near  it  lie, 

And  all  the  coasts  of  Montalbán  and  Huesea  he  passed  by, 

And  unto  the  salt  ocean  he  began  the  way  to  force. 

In  the  East  the  sun  arises ;  thither  he  turned  his  course. 

On  Jérica  and  Almenar  and  Onda  he  laid  hand, 

Round  about  Bórriana  he  conquered  all  the  land. 

LXV    God  helped  him,  the  Creator  in  Heaven  that  doth  dwell. 
Beside  these  Murviédro  hath  the  Cid  ta'en  as  well. 
Then  that  the  Lord  was  on  his  side,  the  Cid  beheld  it  clear. 
In  the  city  of  Valencia  arose  no  little  fear. 

LXVI     It  irked  them  in  Valencia.     It  gave  them  no  delight. 
Be  it  known ;  and  to  surround  him  they  planned.    They  marched  by 
They  pulled  up  at  Murviédro  to  camp  as  morning  broke,     [night ; 
My  lord  the  Cid  beheld  it  and  wondering  much  he  spoke : 

"Father  in  Heaven,  mighty  thanks  must  I  now  proffer  Thee. 
In  their  lands  we  dwell  and  do  them  every  sort  of  injury ; 
And  we  have  drunk  their  liquor,  of  their  bread  our  meal  we  make. 
If  they  come  forth  to  surround  us,  justly  they  undertake. 
Without  a  fight  this  matter  will  in  no  way  be  a-paid. 
Let  messengers  go  seek  them  who  now  should  bear  us  aid ; 
Let  them  go  to  them  in  Jérica  and  Alucát  that  are 
And  thence  to  Onda.    Likewise  let  them  go  to  Almenar. 


40  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Let  the  men  of  Bórriana  hither  at  once  come  in. 

In  this  place  a  pitched  battle  we  shall  certainly  begin. 

I  trust  much  will  be  added  to  our  gain  in  this  essay." 

They  all  were  come  together  in  his  host  on  the  third  day. 
And  he  who  in  good  hour  was  born  'gan  speak  his  meaning  clear : 

' '  So  may  the  Creator  aid  us,  my  gallants  hark  and  hear. 
Since  we  have  left  fair  Christendom — We  did  not  as  we  would ; 
We  could  no  other — God  be  praised  our  fortune  has  been  good. 
The  Valencians  besiege  us.    If  here  we  would  remain, 
They  must  learn  of  us  a  lesson  excelling  in  its  pain. 

LXVII    "Let  the  night  pass  and  morning  come.    Look  that  ye 

ready  be 
With  arms  and  horses.    We  will  forth  that  host  of  theirs  to  see. 
Like  men  gone  out  in  exile  into  a  strange  empire, 
There  shall  it  be  determined  who  is  worthy  of  his  hire." 

LXVIII    Minaya  Alvar  Fañez,  hark  what  he  said  thereto : 
"Ho!  Campeador,  thy  pleasure  in  all  things  may  we  do. 

Give  me  of  knights  an  hundred,  I  ask  not  one  other  man. 

And  do  thou  with  the  others  smite  on  them  in  the  van. 

While  my  hundred  storm  their  rearward,  upon  them  thou  shalt 

thrust — 

Ne'er  doubt  it.    We  shall  triumph  as  in  God  is  all  my  trust." 

Wliatsoever  he  had  spoken  filled  the  Cid  with  right  good  cheer. 
And  now  was  come  the  morning,  and  they  donned  their  battle- 

What  was  his  task  of  battle  every  man  of  them  did  know,     [gear 

At  the  l)r('ak  of  day  against  tliem  forth  did  the  lord  Cid  go. 

"In  God's  name  and  Saint  James',  my  knights,  strike  hard  into 

And  niaiiful.    The  lord  Cid  am  I,  Roy  Diaz  of  Bivar!"    [the  war, 
You  might  see  a  many  tent-ropes  everywhither  broken  lie, 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  41 

And  pegs  wrenched  up;  the  tent-posts  on  all  sides  leaned  awry. 

The  Moors  were  very  many.    To  recover  they  were  fain, 

But  now  did  Alvar  Fañez  on  their  rearward  fall  amain. 

Though  bitterly  it  grieved  them,  they  had  to  ñy  and  yield. 

Who  could  put  trust  in  horsehoofs,  and  forthwith  fled  the  field. 

Two  kings  of  the  Moriscos  there  in  the  rout  they  slew ; 

And  even  to  Valencia  the  chase  did  they  pursue. 

And  mighty  is  the  booty  my  lord  the  Cid  had  ta'en. 

They  ravaged  all  the  country  and  then  turned  back  again. 

They  brought  to  Murviédro  the  booty  of  the  foes. 

And  great  was  the  rejoicing  in  the  city  that  arose. 

Cebolla  have  they  taken  and  all  the  lands  anear. 

In  Valencia  they  knew  not  what  to  do  for  very  fear. 

Of  my  lord  Cid  the  great  tidings,  be  it  known,  on  all  sides  spread. 

LXIX     His  renown  afar  is  spreading.    Beyond  the  sea  it  sped. 
Glad  were  the  companies;  the  Cid  a  glad  man  was  he 
That  God  had  given  him  succor  and  gained  that  victory. 
And  they  sent  forth  their  harriers.  By  night  they  marched  away, 
They  reached  unto  Culléra,  and  to  Játiva  came  they. 
And  ever  downward  even  to  Dénia  town  they  bore. 
And  all  the  Moorish  country  by  the  sea  he  wasted  sore. 
Peñacadéll,  outgoing  and  entrance,  have  they  ta'en. 

LXX    When  the  Cid  took  Peñacadéll,  it  was  great  grief  and  pain 
To  them  who  in  Culléra  and  in  Játiva  did  dwell, 
And  sorrow  without  measure  in  Valencia  befell. 

LXXI     Three  years  those  towns  to  conquer  in  the  Moorish  land 

he  bode, 
Winning  much ;  by  day  he  rested,  and  at  night  was  on  the  road. 


42  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

LXXII     On  the  dwellers  in  Valencia  they  wrought  chastisement 

sore, 
From  the  to^vn  they  dared  not  sally  against  him  to  make  war. 
He  harried  all  their  gardens  and  a  mighty  ruin  made ; 
And  all  those  years  their  harvest  in  utter  waste  he  laid. 
Loud  lamented  the  Valencians,  for  sore  bested  they  were, 
Nor  could  find  in  any  quarter  any  sort  of  provender ; 
Nor  could  the  father  aid  the  son,  nor  the  son  aid  the  sire, 
Nor  comrade  comfort  comrade.    Gentles,  'tis  hardship  dire 
To  lack  for  bread,  and  see  our  wives  and  children  waste  away. 
They  saw  their  own  affliction  and  no  hope  of  help  had  they. 

To  the  King  of  Morocco  had  they  sent  the  tidings  on. 
'Gainst  the  lord  of  Montes  Claros  on  a  great  war  was  he  gone. 
He  counselled  not.    He  came  not  to  aid  them  in  the  war. 

My  lord  the  Cid  had  heard  it.    His  heart  was  glad  therefor ; 
And  forth  from  Murviédro  he  marched  away  by  night. 
He  was  in  tlie  fields  of  Monreál  at  the  breaking  of  the  light. 
Through  Aragón  the  tidings  he  published,  and  Navarre, 
And  through  the  IMarches  of  Castile  he  spread  the  news  afar : 
Wlio  poverty  would  put  away  and  riches  would  attain, 
Let  him  seek  the  Cid,  whoever  of  a  soldier 's  life  is  fain. 
Valencia  to  beleaguer,  he  desireth  to  go  down. 
That  he  may  unto  the  Christians  deliver  up  the  town. 

LXXIII     "Valencia  to  beleaguer,  who  fain  would  march  with 
Let  none  come  hither  to  me,  if  his  choice  be  not  free.  [me — 

Is  nouglit  that  may  compel  him  along  with  me  to  fare — 
In  Canal  de  Celfa  for  three  days  I  will  tarry  for  him  there." 

LXXTV     So  my  lord  Cid  hath  spoken,  the  loyal  Campeador, 
lie  turned  back  io  Murviédo  tliat  he  had  ta'en  in  war. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  43 

Be  it  known  into  all  quarters  went  the  word  forth.    None  were 

[fain 
To  delay  who  smelt  the  plunder.    Crowds  thronged  to  him  amain, 
Good  christened  folk,  and  ringing  went  his  tidings  far  and  wide ; 
And  more  men  came  unto  him  than  departed  from  his  side. 
He  of  Bivár,  my  lord  the  Cid,  great  growth  of  riches  had. 
When  he  saw  the  bands  assembled,  he  began  to  be  right  glad. 
My  lord  Cid,  don  Rodrigo,  for  nothing  would  delay. 
He  marched  against  Valencia  and  smote  on  it  straightway. 
Well  did  the  Cid  surround  it;  till  the  leaguer  closed  about. 
He  thwarted  their  incomings,  he  checked  their  goings  out. 
To  seek  for  alien  succor  he  gave  them  time  of  grace ; 
And  nine  full  months  together  he  sat  down  before  the  place, 
And  when  the  tenth  was  coming,  to  yield  it  were  they  fain. 
And  great  was  the  rejoicing  in  the  city  that  did  reign, 
When  the  lord  Cid  took  Valencia  and  within  the  town  had  won. 
All  of  his  men  were  cavaliers  that  erst  afoot  had  gone. 
Who  the  worth  of  gold  and  silver  for  your  pleasure  could  declare  ? 
They  all  were  rich  together  as  many  as  were  there. 
For  himself  the  Cid  Rodrigo  took  the  fifth  part  of  all, 
And  coined  marks  thirty  thousand  unto  his  share  did  fall. 
Who  could  tell  the  other  treasure  ?    Great  joy  the  Cid  befell 
And  his  men,  when  the  flag-royal  tossed  o  'er  the  citadel. 


LXXV     The  Cid  and  his  companions  they  rested  in  the  place 
Unto  the  King  of  Seville  the  tiding  came  apace : 
Ta'en  is  Valencia  city;  for  him  'tis  held  no  more. 

With  thirt}^  thousand  armed  men  he  came  to  look  them  o'er. 
Nigh  to  the  plain  a  battle  they  pitched  both  stiff  and  strong. 
But  the  lord  Cid  long-bearded  hath  overthrown  that  throng. 
And  even  unto  Játiva  in  a  long  rout  they  poured. 


44  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

You  might  have  seen  all  bedlam  on  the  Júcar  by  the  ford, 
For  there  the  Moors  drank  water  but  sore  against  their  will. 
With  but  three  strokes  upon  him  'scaped  the  Sovereign  of  Seville. 
And  then  with  all  that  booty  the  Cid  came  home  again. 
Great  was  Valencia's  plunder  what  time  the  town  was  ta'en, 
But  that  the  spoils  of  that  affray  were  greater  yet,  know  well. 
An  hundred  marks  of  silver  to  each  common  soldier  fell. 
How  had  sped  that  noble's  fortune  now  lightly  may  you  guess. 


LXXVI     There  was  among  those  Christians  excelling  happiness 
For  my  lord  Roy  Diaz  that  was  born  in  a  season  of  good  grace. 
And  now  his  beard  was  growing ;  longer  it  grew  apace. 
For  this  the  Cid  had  spoken,  this  from  his  mouth  said  he, 
"By  my  love  for  King  Alphonso  the  king  who  banished  me," 
That  the  shears  should  not  shear  it,  nor  a  single  hair  dispart, 
That  so  the  Moors  and  Christians  might  ponder  it  at  heart. 

And  resting  in  Valencia  did  the  lord  Cid  abide, 
"With  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  who  would  not  leave  his  side. 
They  who  went  forth  to  exile  of  riches  had  good  store. 
To  all  men  in  Valencia,  the  gallant  Campeador 
Crave  houses  and  possessions  whereof  they  were  right  glad. 
All  men  of  the  Cid's  bounty  good  testimony  had. 
And  of  them  that  had  come  later  well  content  was  every  one. 
My  lord  Cid  saw  it  plainly  that  they  fain  would  get  them  gone, 
"With  the  goods  that  they  had  taken,  if  unhindered  they  might  go. 
The  lord  Cid  gave  his  order  (Minaya  counselled  so) 
That  if  any  man  that  with  him  in  richer  case  did  stand 
Should  take  his  leave  in  secret  and  fail  to  kiss  his  hand. 
If  they  might  overtake  him  and  catch  him  as  he  fled, 
They  would  seize  his  goods  and  bring  him  unto  the  gallows-head. 
Lo!  was  it  well  looked  after.    Counsel  he  took  again 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  45 

With  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez : 

"An  it  be  that  thou  art  fain, 
Gladly  would  I  know,  Minaya,  what  may  the  number  be 
Of  my  henchmen,  as  at  present,  that  have  gained  aught  by  me. 
I  shall  set  it  down  in  writing.    Let  them  well  the  number  scan, 
Lest  one  depart  in  secret  and  I  should  miss  the  man. 
To  me  and  my  companions  his  goods  shall  be  restored. 
All  they  who  guard  Valencia  and  keep  the  outer  ward. 

"The  measure  is  well  counselled,"  said  Minaya  therewithal. 


LXXVII     He  bade  them  meet  together  at  the  palace,  in  the  hall. 
When  he  found  them  met  together  he  had  them  numbered  o'er. 
Bivár's  great  Cid  had  with  him  thousands  three,  and  thirty  score. 
His  heart  was  glad  within  him,  and  a  smile  was  on  his  face. 
"Thanks  be  to  God,  Minaya,  and  to  Mary  Mother's  grace. 
Out  from  Bivár  the  city  we  led  a  lesser  power. 
Wealth  have  we,  and  shall  have  greater  as  at  some  later  hour. 

"Minaya,  if  it  please  thee,  if  it  seemeth  good  to  thee. 
To  Castile  I  fain  would  send  thee,  where  our  possessions  be, 
Unto  the  King  Alphonso  that  is  my  lord  by  right. 
Out  of  the  mighty  plunder  we  won  here  in  the  fight 
I  would  give  him  fivescore  horses,  the  which  to  him  now  take ; 
Kiss  thou  his  hand  and  earnestly  plead  with  him  for  the  sake 
Of  my  wife  Xiména  and  the  twain,  maids  of  my  blood  that  be, 
If  yet  it  be  his  pleasure  that  the}'  be  brought  to  me. 
I  will  send  for  them.    But  be  it  known  how  this  my  message  runs : 
The  lady  of  my  lord  the  Cid  and  her  maids,  my  little  ones. 
Men  shall  seek  for  in  such  fashion  that  in  glorj-  and  delight 
They  shall  come  to  the  strange  country  we  have  conquered  by 

our  might." 

To  him  Minaya  answered:  "Yea  and  with  right  good  heart." 


46  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

After  they  thus  had  spoken  they  got  ready  to  depart. 
The  Cid  to  Alvar  Fañez  an  hundred  men  decreed 
To  do  his  will,  and  serve  him  on  the  journej^  at  his  need. 
And  he  bade  give  to  San  Pedro  marks  of  silver  fift}^  score, 
And  beside  to  Abbot  Sancho  a  full  five  hundred  more. 


LXXVIII     Of  these  things  while  they  were  joyous,  came  thither 

from  the  East, 
A  clerk,  the  Bishop  don  Jerome,  so  all  men  called  that  priest. 
Excelling  was  his  knowledge,  and  prudent  was  his  rede, 
'Twas  a  mighty  man  of  valor  afoot  or  on  the  steed. 
Of  the  Cid's  deeds  the  tidings  he  was  seeking  to  procure. 
And  he  yearned  sore,  ever  sighing  for  battle  with  the  Moor. 
If  his  fill  of  fight  and  wounding  with  his  hands  he  e'er  should  get, 
Therefor  a  Christian  never  need  have  reason  for  regret. 
When  my  lord  the  Cid  had  heard  it,  he  was  well  pleased  thereby : 

"Hark,  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez,  by  Him  who  is  on  High, 
Wlien  the  Lord  God  would  aid  us,  let  us  give  Him  thanks  again. 
Round  Valencia  a  bishopric  to  stablish  I  am  fain. 
And  I  will  further  give  it  unto  this  Christian  leal. 
Thou  shalt  bear  with  thee  good  tidings  when  thou  goest  to 

Castile." 


LXXIX     Of  that  saying  Alvar  Fañez  was  glad  when  the  Cid 

Don  Jerome  his  ordination  there  and  then  they  undertake,    [spake. 

In  Valencia  great  riches  have  they  given  to  his  hand. 

God !  how  merry  was  all  Christendom  that  now  within  the  land 

Of  Valencia  a  bishop  of  reverend  grace  had  they ! 

Glad  therefore  was  Minaya  and  took  leave  and  went  his  way. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  47 

LXXX     And  now  is  all  Valencia  in  peaceable  estate. 
Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  to  Castile  departed  straight; 
His  halts  I  will  pass  over,  nor  renew  them  to  tlie  mind. 
But  he  sought  out  Alphonso  where  the  King  was  to  find. 
The  King  to  Sahagún  had  gone  before  some  little  space, 
But  was  come  back  to  Carrion ;  he  might  find  him  in  that  place. 
Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  was  glad  when  this  was  known. 
With  his  presents  he  departed  forthwith  to  Carrion. 

LXXXI     Now  when  the  mass  was  over,  thence  did  Alfonso  rise, 

And  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  came  there  in  noble  guise. 

In  the  presence  of  the  people  he  kneeled  upon  his  knee, 

He  fell  at  don  Alfonso's  feet,  and  bitter  tears  shed  he. 

He  kissed  his  hands ;  unto  the  King  most  lovely  words  he  spake : 

LXXXII     **A  boon  my  lord  Alfonso  for  the  Creator's  sake! 

My  lord  Cid  of  the  battles  has  kissed  thy  hands  ere  now. 

Thy  hands  and  thy  feet  likewise,  for  his  noble  lord  art  thou. 

If  thou  favorest  him,  God's  favor  come  upon  thee  from  above. 

Thou  didst  send  him  into  exile  and  bearest  him  no  love, 

Though  in  strange  lands  he  thriveth.    Jerica  he  won  in  war 

And  Onda,  so  they  call  it;  so  also  Almenar, 

And  likewise  Murviédro  (for  a  greater  town  'tis  known), 

And  he  has  ta'en  Cebolla  and  further  Castejón 

And  he  has  stormed  Peñacadéll  that  is  a  place  of  power. 

He  is  master  of  Valencia  and  these  places  at  this  hour. 

With  his  own  hand  the  great  Campeador  a  bishop  hath  ordained. 

He  has  forced  five  pitched  battles  and  in  each  the  victory  gained. 

The  gift  of  the  Creator  was  a  verj^  mighty  prey. 

Do  thou  behold  the  tokens  of  the  truth  of  that  I  say: 

Here  be  an  hundred  horses  that  in  strength  and  speed  excel; 


48  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

With  bridle  and  with  saddle  each  one  is  furnished  well. 

He  kissed  thy  hands  and  begged  thee  thine  acceptance  to  accord. 

He  declares  himself  thy  vassal,  and  o^vns  thee  for  his  lord. ' ' 

The  King  has  lifted  his  right  hand  and  crossed  himself  there- 

""With  what  a  wondrous  booty  the  Campeador  has  won     [on : 
I  am  well  pleased  in  spirit.     Saint  Isidore  to  speed ! 
I  am  glad  the  Campeador  does  now  so  many  a  fair  deed. 
I  accept  the  gift  of  horses  that  the  Cid  to  me  has  sent. ' ' 

Though  the  King  thereby  was  gladdened,  was  Ordonez  not 

content ; 

"Meseems  that  in  the  Moorish  land  is  no  man  any  more, 
Since  so  his  will  upon  them  works  the  Cid  Campeador." 

To  the  Count  the  King  gave  answer:  ''So  speak  not  of  him 
In  faith  he  doth  me  service  of  a  better  sort  than  thou."     [now! 

And  then  outspoke  Minaya,  like  a  nobleman  spoke  he: 
"The  Cid,  if  it  shall  please  thee,  desires  a  boon  of  thee, 
For  his  wife  Dame  Xiména  and  his  daughters  two  beside, 
That  they  may  leave  the  convent  where  he  left  them  to  abide, 
And  may  hasten  to  Valencia  to  the  noble  Campeador. ' ' 
Then  said  the  King  in  answer : 

"My  heart  is  glad  therefor. 
That  they  be  given  escort  I  will  issue  the  command, 
So  that  they  may  be  protected  as  they  travel  through  my  land 
From  insult  and  dishonor  and  whatever  harm  may  be. 
And  when  these  ladies  shall  have  reached  my  kingdom's  boundary, 
Have  a  care  how  thou  shalt  serve  them,  thou  and  the  Campeador. 
Now  hark  to  me,  my  vassals,  and  my  courtiers  furthermore : 
I  like  not  that  to  Roy  Diaz  any  losses  shall  befall. 
And  therefore  to  his  vassals,  the  Cid  their  lord  that  call, 
I  restore  that  which  I  seized  on,  their  possession  and  their  fee. 
Let  them  keep  their  lands,  no  matter  where  the  Campeador  may 
From  harm  and  hurt  the  safety  of  their  persons  I  accord.        [be ; 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  49 

This  I  do  that  they  may  lightly  render  service  to  their  lord." 
Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  kissed  the  King's  hand  straightway. 

And  the  King  smiled  upon  him  and  a  fair  word  did  he  say : 

''Who'er  to  serve  the  Campeador  desireth  now  to  ride, 

As  for  me,  he  has  permission,  and  God's  grace  with  him  abide. 

More  than  by  further  hatred  by  this  measure  shall  we  gain," 
Counsel  straightway  together  held  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  twain. 

"The  fame  of  the  Cid  Campeador  grows  great  on  every  side, 

An  we  might  wed  his  daughters,  would  our  needs  be  satisfied. 

Scarce  we  dare  frame  this  project  e  'en  to  ourselves  alone ; 

The  Cid  is  of  Bivár,  and  we  are  Counts  of  Carrion. ' ' 

They  hatched  that  plot  between  them,  to  none  they  told  the 

Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  took  leave  of  the  good  King:  [thing. 

' '  Ha !  goest  thou,  Minaj'a  ?    The  Creator  give  thee  grace. 

Take  an  herald.    As  I  deem  it  he  may  help  thee  in  this  ease. 

If  thou  take  the  ladies,  serve  them  even  as  thej^  desire. 

Even  unto  Medina  grant  them  all  that  they  require. 

The  Campeador  shall  take  them  in  his  charge  thenceforward  on." 

After  leave  ta'en  Minava  from  the  court  he  got  him  gone. 


LXXXIII     Ajid  so  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  did  each  with  each  con- 

With  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  in  company  they  went :  [sent. 

'  *  In  all  things  thou  excellest ;  likewise  in  this  excel : 

Greet  now  my  lord  Cid  of  Bivár  for  us  exceeding  well, 

To  the  utmost  of  our  effort  his  partisans  are  we. 

The  Cid,  an  he  will  love  us,  shall  get  no  injury." 

Said  Minaya:  "In  that  proffer  nauglit  displeasing  I  discern." 

Gone  is  Minaya.     Home  again  did  the  two  counts  return. 
He  hastens  to  San  Pedro  where  the  three  ladies  are. 
Very  great  was  the  rejoicing  when  they  saw  him  from  afar. 
To  offer  prayer  Minaya  to  San  Pedro  did  descend. 


50  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

He  turned  back  unto  the  ladies  when  the  prayer  was  at  an  end. 

''I  greet  thee,  Dame  Xiména.     God  thee  prosper  and  maintain, 

And  so  likewise  thy  daughters,  the  noble  children  twain. 

In  the  city  where  he  dwelleth  the  lord  Cid  greets  thee  fair. 

Good  health  has  he  and  riches  that  are  beyond  compare. 

The  King  for  a  gift  to  him  your  freedom  gave  to  me, 

To  take  you  to  Valencia  our  land  of  lawful  fee. 

If  the  Cid  might  behold  3'ou  well  and  unharmed  again, 

He  would  be  all  rejoicing,  but  scant  would  be  his  pain." 

"Maj"  the  Creator  so  decide,"  the  Dame  Xiména  said. 

Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  sent  three  horsemen  on  ahead. 

To  the  Cid  within  Valencia  the  men  did  he  commend : 

"Announce  unto  the  Campeador,  whom  the  Lord  God  defend, 

That  the  King  his  wife  and  daughters  has  released  unto  my  hands, 

And  has  ordered  escort  for  us  as  we  travel  through  his  lands. 

Fifteen  days  from  this  time  forward,  if  God  keep  us  in  his  care, 

"Witli  liis  wife  and  with  his  daughtei*s  I  will  come  unto  him  there, 

With  the  noble  ladies  also  their  servitors  that  be. ' ' 

The  riders  are  gone  forward,  to  the  matter  they  will  see. 

Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  in  San  Pedro  did  abide. 
There  might  you  see  the  horsemen  swarming  in  from  every  side ; 
Unto  my  lord  Cid  of  Bivár  in  Valencia  would  they  go. 
They  besought  Alvar  Fañez  that  he  would  them  favor  so. 
To  them  replied  Minaya.    "That  will  I  gladly  do." 
And  five  and  sixty  horsemen  have  swelled  his  retinue, 
And  lie  had  brought  an  hundred  thither  in  his  command. 
To  accompany  the  ladies,  they  arrayed  a  noble  band. 

Minaya  marks  five  hundred  to  the  Abbot  then  gave  o'er. 
I  will  tell  how  he  expended  other  five  and  twenty  score. 
Xiména  the  good  lady  and  likewise  her  daughters  twain, 
And  they  that  served  before  her,  the  women  of  her  train. 
To  deck  out  all  those  ladies  good  Minaya  did  prepare 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  51 

With  the  best  array  in  Burgos,  that  he  niiglit  discover  there, 
And  the  mules  and  palfreys  likewise  that  they  might  be  fair  to 
When  he  had  decked  the  ladies  in  this  manner  beautifully,    [see. 
Got  ready  good  Minaya  to  ride  upon  his  way. 
Lo  now!     Raquel  and  Vidas.     Down  at  his  feet  fell  they: 
"A  boon!  true  knight,  Minaya!    If  the  Cid  stand  not  our  aid, 
He  has  ruined  us.    If  only  the  amount  to  us  were  paid 
We  would  forego  the  usury ! ' ' 

"So  will  I  tell  the  Cid, 
If  God  bring  me  there.    High  favor  shall  there  be  for  what  ye 
Answered  Raquel  and  Vidas :  "The  Creator  send  it  so.        [did." 
If  not,  we  will  leave  Burgos  in  search  of  him  to  go." 

Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  to  San  Pedro  got  him  gone. 
Many  people  came  around  him  as  he  started  to  ride  on. 
At  parting  from  the  Abbot  great  grief  of  heart  was  there : 
"Minaya  Alvar  Fañez,  God  keep  thee  in  his  care. 
The  hands  of  the  Good  Campeador,  I  prithee  kiss  for  me 
That  he  may  keep  the  convent  still  in  his  memory. 
And  always  may  endeavor  to  make  it  prosper  more, 
So  shall  increase  the  honor  of  the  Cid  Campeador." 
"Right  gladly  will  I  do  it,"  Minaya  straight  replied. 
Their  leave  then  have  they  taken  and  fettled  them  to  ride, 
And  with  them  went  the  Herald  on  their  need  that  was  to  wait. 
Through  the  King's  realm  an  escort  thej^  gave  them  very  great. 
From  San  Pedro  to  Medina  in  five  days  time  they  passed. 
Lo,  the  dames  and  Alvar  Fañez  to  IMedíua  came  at  last ! 

I  will  tell  you  of  the  horsemen  that  brought  those  tidings 

through. 
When  my  lord  the  good  Cid  of  Bivar  thereof  the  import  knew. 
He  was  glad  at  heart  and  merry.    His  voice  he  lifted  straight : 
"Who  sends  a  noble  messenger,  should  like  return  await. 
Muño  Gustioz,  Per  Vermudoz,  the  first  of  all  are  you, 


52  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

And  Martin  Antolinez  from  Burgos,  tried  and  true, 
And  Jerome  the  bishop  also,  a  worthy  clerk  is  he, 
With  an  hundred  ride  you  readj^  to  fight  if  need  shall  be. 
Through  Saint  Marj^  's  to  Molina  further  onward  shall  ye  wend ; 
Avengalvón  there  holdeth  sway  my  vassal  and  fast  friend. 
"With  another  hundred  horsemen  he  will  watch  you  on  your  way. 
Kide  forth  unto  Medina  with  all  the  speed  ye  may, 
With  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  my  wife  and  daughters  there 
Haply  ye  shall  discover  as  the  messengers  declare. 
Bring  them  hither  to  me  noblj^    In  Valencia  I  will  bide. 
That  cost  me  dear.    Unguarded  'twere  madness  undenied 
To  leave  it.     'Tis  my  portion.    There  will  I  stay  therefore. ' ' 

They  fettled  them  for  riding,  when  all  his  words  were  o'er; 
With  utmost  speed  they  hastened,  their  march  they  would  not 

stay. 
Thej^  have  passed  by  Saint  Marj^'s.    At  Froncháles  rested  they. 
Next  day  into  Molina,  their  halting-place,  they  spurred. 
When  those  tidings  the  Morisco  Avengalvón  had  heard, 
To  welcome  them  with  joji-ance  unto  them  did  he  descend: 
"Are  you  then  come  the  vassals  of  my  heart's  dearest  friend? 
Be  it  known  it  grieves  me  little.    Therein  my  joy  is  great." 

And  Muño  Gustioz  answered,  for  no  man  would  he  wait: 
"My  lord  Cid  sends  thee  greeting,  as  also  his  command 
That  with  an  hundred  horsemen  thou  shalt  serve  him  out  of  hand. 
In  the  city  of  JMedina  lie  his  wife  and  daughters  twain. 
Thou  wilt  go  for  tliem  straightway  and  bring  them  here  again, 
Even  unto  Valencia  thou  shalt  not  from  them  part." 
Avengalvón  gave  answer:  "I  will  do  it  with  glad  heart." 
That  niglit  he  chose  them  escort,  a  might}^  l)and  were  they. 
In  the  morning  they  got  ready  anew  to  take  the  way. 
Thoy  asked  for  but  an  hnndred;  ten  score  had  he  forby. 
They  passed  across  the  mountains  that  were  so  steep  and  high, 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  53 

And  through  the  thicket  of  Toránz,  so  strong  they  had  no  dread. 
And  along  through  Arbujuélo  adown  the  vale  they  sp(;d. 
Now  round  about  Medina  they  watched  on  every  side, 
Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  that  armed  train  descried. 
He  was  afraid  and  sent  two  knights  the  meaning  to  make  plain. 
They  delayed  not,  to  discover  his  desire  their  hearts  were  fain. 
One  stayed,  to  Alvar  Fañez  the  other  came  once  more: 
"A  company  to  seek  us  comes  from  the  Campeador. 
Per  Vermudóz,  lo,  foremost  among  those  ranks  is  he, 
And  likewise  Muño  Gustióz  that  frankly  loveth  thee. 
And  Martin  Antolinez  that  was  born  in  Burgos  town. 
And  don  Jerome  the  Bishop  of  honorable  renown. 
Avengalvón  the  Castellan  bringeth  his  host  with  these. 
In  eagerness  the  honor  of  my  lord  Cid  to  increase. 
They  march  along  together.    They  will  be  here  anon." 
Said  Minaya : ' '  Forth  now  let  us  ride. ' '    And  swiftly  was  it  done, 
They  would  not  stay.     An  hundred  most  splendidlj'  arrayed 
Sallied  forth  on  noble  horses  with  trappings  of  brocade. 
Bells  hung  upon  the  martingales,  the  knights  their  bucklers  bore 
At  the  neck,  and  carried  lances  whence  flew  the  flags  of  war 
That  Alvar  Fañez'  wisdom  to  all  they  might  reveal, 
And  in  what  guise  with  those  ladies  he  had  issued  from  Castile. 
All  they  that  reconnoitering  before  the  army  ran 
Now  lifted  up  their  weapons,  and  to  make  good  cheer  began. 
Great  mirth  was  there  when  all  the  rest  to  the  Jalón  drew  nigh. 
When  they  came  unto  Minaya  thej'  did  him  homage  high. 
And  when  Avengalvón  was  come,  and  might  Minaya  see, 
Then  forward  to  embrace  him  with  smiling  lips  came  he. 
On  the  shoulder  he  saluted  him,  for  such  wa.s  still  his  way: 
' '  0,  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez !     For  thee  what  glorious  day ! 
Thou  bringest  here  these  ladies,  whence  we  shall  have  great  good. 
The  fighting  Cid  his  consort,  and  the  daughters  of  his  blood. 


54  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

"We  all  shall  do  thee  honor  for  his  fortune  groweth  great. 
Though  we  wished  him  ill,  we  cannot  diminish  his  estate; 
He  will  have  alway  our  succor  either  in  peace  or  war. 
The  man  who  will  not  know  the  truth,  he  is  a  dolt  therefor. 


LXXXIV     Jlinaya  Alvar  Fañez,  on  his  lips  a  smile  broke  out : 
' '  Ha  now !  Ha  now !  Avengalvón.    Thou  art  his  friend  no  doubt. 
If  God  shall  bring  me  to  the  Cid  and  him  alive  I  see, 
The  things  that  thou  has  done  for  us  shall  greatly  profit  thee. 
Let  us  to  our  lodging,  supper  they  have  made  ready  there, ' ' 
Avengalvón  gave  answer:  *'  'Tis  a  courtesy  most  fair; 
Double  will  I  repay  it  ere  the  third  morning  fall. ' ' 
To  the  town  they  came.    Minaya  provided  for  them  all. 
The  escort  that  came  with  them,  they  were  gladdened  when  they 
Minaya  the  King's  herald  commanded  to  withdraw.  [saw. 

The  lord  Cid  in  Valencia  was  greatly  honored  then. 
When  they  gave  such   entertainment  in  Medina  to   his   men. 
The  King  paid  for  all.    Minaya  therefor  had  naught  to  pay. 
At  length  the  night  was  over,  and  came  the  break  of  day. 
And  mass  they  heard,  and  after  away  they  rode  at  last. 
They  ha.stened  from  Medina,  o'er  the  Jalón  they  passed. 
And  down  the  Arbujuélo  spurring  apace  they  ride. 
In  ha.ste  the  meadows  of  Toránz  they  cross  from  side  to  side, 
They  came  unto  Molina  where  Avengalvón  was  lord. 
Bishop  Jerome,  a  Christian  worthy  of  his  deed  and  word. 
Escorted  the  three  ladies  whether  by  day  or  night, 
And  he  led  a  good  charger  with  his  armor  on  his  right. 
And  lie  and  Alvar  Fañez  rode  aye  togetlier  thus. 
They  have  entered  in  Molina  the  rich  and  glorious, 
And  loyally  Avengalvón  the  Moor  has  served  them  there. 
Unto  the  height  of  their  desire,  nothing  they  lackiid  whate'er: 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  55 

He  even  bade  men  strike  for  them  the  horseshoe  from  the  steed. 

Minaya  and  the  ladies,  God !  he  honored  them  indeed. 

They  got  them  upon  horseback  when  the  next  morning  fell. 

Unto  Valencia  loyally  he  served  them  all  and  well. 

The  Moor  spent  of  his  own  estate,  for  naught  from  them  took  he. 

With  such  honorable  matters  and  mirth  and  revelry 

They  came  nigh  unto  Valencia,  that  three  leagues  off  doth  stand. 

To  my  lord  Cid  who  in  good  hour  had  girded  on  the  brand, 

In  the  city  of  Valencia  the  news  thereof  they  bore. 


LXXXV     Nothing  had  ever  gladdened  him  so  much  as  this  or 

more, 
For  now  there  came  good  news  of  them  for  whom  great  love  he 

had. 
Straightway  two  hundred  horsemen  to  go  forth  to  them  he  bade, 
To  the  good  dames  and  Minaya  fair  reception  to  afford. 
But  he  tarried  in  Valencia  to  watch  it  and  to  ward, 
For  he  knew  that  Alvar  Fañez  with  all  due  care  would  come. 


LXXXVI    And  lo  !  now  the  two  hundred  welcomed  Miua3'a  home. 
And  the  ladies  and  the  daughters  and  all  within  the  band. 
The  Cid  to  them  within  his  train  had  issued  his  command 
To  ward  full  well  the  citadel,  and  the  towers  that  were  so  high. 
And  the  gates  that  none  might  enter  and  none  depart  thereby. 
And  he  bade  bring  Bavieca  that  a  little  time  before 
From  the  King  of  Seville  he  had  ta'en,  when  he  routed  him  in 

war. 
The  Cid  that  in  good  season  girt  the  brand  on,  of  that  steed 
Knew  not  if  he  were  swift  to  run  or  to  stop  short  at  need. 
At  the  gateway  of  Valencia  where  none  might  work  him  woe. 


56  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Unto  his  wife  and  daughters  he  desired  his  gear  to  show. 

When  the  ladies  with  great  honor  the  host  had  welcomed  home. 
Then  first  into  the  city  came  the  Bishop  don  Jerome, 
He  left  his  horse;  to  chapel  straightway^  the  Bishop  went. 
With  all  men  that  he  could  gather  who  were  of  like  intent, 
And  surplice-clad,  with  crosses  of  silver,  once  again 
They  greeted  good  Minaya  and  the  ladies  of  the  train. 
He  who  was  born  in  happy  time  tarried  but  little  there. 
He  has  put  on  his  surcoat.    His  beard  was  long  and  fair. 
On  Baviéca  saddle  and  caparisons  they  threw. 
The  Cid  took  wooden  weapons;  forth  on  the  steed  he  flew. 
Leaped  the  steed  Baviéca,     With  a  great  rush  did  he  run. 
'Twas  rare  to  see.    And  when  he  ceased  they  marvelled  all  and 
From  that  day  Baviéca  in  all  Spain  had  renown.  [one. 

Wlien  that  career  was  ended,  from  the  steed  the  Cid  got  down, 
And  hastened  forth  his  lady  and  daughters  twain  to  greet. 
Wlien  Dame  Xiména  saw  him  she  cast  her  at  his  feet : 
"Brand  thou  girdedst  in  good  season.    Thy  favour,  Campeador! 
Tliou  hast  brought  me  forth  from  insults  that  were  exceeding  sore. 
Look  on  me,  lord!    Look  also  on  my  daughters  as  on  me. 
By  God's  help  and  thine  thej^  are  noble,  and  gently  reared  they 

be." 

And  the  Cid  straightway  embraced  them,  mother  and  daugh- 
ters twain. 
Such  joy  they  had  that  from  their  eyes  the  tears  began  to  rain. 
His  men  rejoiced.  The  quintains,  they  pierced  them  with  the  spear. 
He  who  girt  sword  in  a  good  time,  hark  what  he  said  and  hear. 

' '  Oh  thou  my  Dame  Xiména,  beloved  and  honored  wife. 
And  ye  two  both  my  daughters  that  are  my  heart  and  life. 
To  the  city  of  Valencia  now  do  yet  enter  in. 
The  fair  estate  that  for  you  it  was  my  lot  to  win." 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  57 

His  hands  thej^  have  kissed  straightway,  the  daughters  and 
So  with  exceeding  honor  to  Valencia  they  came.         [their  dame. 

LXXXVII     With  them  the  lord  Cid  hastened  to  the  citadel 

apace, 
He  has  ta'en  the  ladies  straightway  up  to  the  highest  place. 
And  forth  in  all  directions  they  turn  their  lovely  eyes, 
And  they  behold  Valencia  and  how  the  city  lies, 
And  in  another  quarter  they  might  perceive  the  sea. 
They  look  on  fertile  meadows  close  sown  and  great  that  be. 
And  on  all  things  whatever  that  were  of  fair  estate. 
God  they  praised  with  hands  uplifted  for  that  good  prize  and 

great. 
My  lord  Cid  and  his  followers  thereof  were  glad  and  fain. 
And  now  w^as  winter  over,  for  March  would  come  again. 
And  of  the  countries  oversea  'tis  my  desire  to  tell. 
Even  of  the  King  Yússuf  in  Morocco  that  did  dwell. 

LXXVIII  The  King's  heart  of  Morocco  'gainst  the  Cid  was 
"By  force  the  man  hath  entered  into  my  heritage,  [full  of  rage : 
And  giveth  thanks  to  no  one  save  Jesus  Christ  therefor." 

And  the  King  of  Morocco  gathered  his  hosts  of  war. 
With  fifty  times  a  thousand  under  arms,  good  men  and  stark. 
They  put  to  sea.    In  galleons  that  army  did  embark 
To  seek  the  Cid  Rodrigo  in  Valencia  they  went, 
The  ships  came  in ;  and  straightway  issued  forth  that  armament. 

LXXXIX     To  Valencia  that  the  Cid  had  ta'en,    'twas  thither 

they  did  fare. 
The  unbelievers  halted  and  pitched  pavilions  there. 
With  tidings  of  the  chances  to  my  lord  the  Cid  they  came. 


58  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

XC     "Now  thanks  to  the  Creator  and  the  Holy  Father's  name. 

All  the  goods  in  my  possession,  I  have  them  here  with  me. 

Hardly  I  took  Valencia,  but  I  hold  it  for  my  fee ; 

This  side  death,  I  cannot  yield  it.    Glory  to  God  again 

And  to  Holy  Mary  Mother  that  my  wife  and  daughters  twain 

Are  here  with  me.    From  oversea  eometh  now  my  delight. 

Never  will  I  forego  it,  I  will  take  the  arms  of  fight. 

My  lady  and  my  daughters  shall  see  me  lift  the  brand, 

They  shall  see  how  men  build  houses  here  in  a  foreign  land. 

And  how  a  livelihood  is  won  their  eyes  shall  see  it  well. ' ' 

He  took  his  wife  and  daughters  up  to  the  citadel. 
They  raised  their  ej-es  and  men  they  saw  pitching  tents  every- 
where. 
' '  Cid,  what  is  this  ?  So  may  the  Lord  still  keep  thee  in  His  care. ' ' 
"Ha,  wife,  much  honored !  Therefor  prithee  be  not  troubled  thus. 
'Tis  wealth  most  great  and  wondrous  that  they  gather  here  for  us. 
Scarce  art  thou  come,  when  presents  they  would  give  thee  in  that 

hour. 
Thy  daughters  wait  for  marriage  'tis  these  that  bring  the  dower. ' ' 
' '  Unto  thee,  Cid,  and  unto  God  do  I  give  thanks  again. ' ' 
"My  lady  in  the  palace  in  the  citadel  remain. 
Wlien  thou  seest  me  in  battle,  fear  not  at  all  for  me. 
By  Saint  Mary  Mother's  mercy,  by  God  His  charity, 
That  thou  art  here  before  me,  my  heart  grows  great  within. 
With  God  His  help  this  battle  I  certainly  shall  win." 


XCI     Now  pitched  are  the  pavilions.    Apace  the  morning  comes. 
And  furiously  the  heathen  beat  loud  upon  the  drums. 
"  'Tis  a  great  day,"  with  a  glad  heart  so  now  the  lord  Cid  spake. 
But  his  lady  was  sore  frighted,  her  heart  was  like  to  break; 
The  laflios  and  his  daughters  were  likewise  all  forlorn. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  59 

Never  had  they  heard  sucli  a  din  since  the  day  when  they  were 

born. 
Therewith  the  great  Cid  Campeador  with  his  tiand  he  plucked 

his  beard. 
' '  This  shall  all  be  to  your  vantage.    Therefore  be  not  afeard. 
Ere  fifteen  days  are  over,  if  so  God's  will  it  be, 
We  shall  take  those  drums  and  show  them  you.    What  they  are 

then  shall  you  see. 
And  then  unto  the  Bishop  don  Jerome  they  shall  be  given ; 
They  will  hang  them  in  Saint  Mary's,  Mother  of  the  Lord  in 

Heaven. ' ' 
It  was  a  vow  most  solemn  that  my  lord  the  Cid  had  made. 
Now  merry  were  the  ladies  and  not  so  much  afraid. 
Those  Moors  out  of  Morocco  in  mighty  haste  they  sped, 
And  on  into  the  gardens  they  entered  without  dread. 

XCII     That  thing  beheld  the  outpost.    lie  let  the  tocsin  sound. 
Of  the  Cid  Roy  Diaz  ready  were  the  companies  around. 
They  sallied  from  the  city  with  their  arms  appointed  well. 
When  they  came  on  the  Moriscos  upon  them  swift  they  fell. 
They  drove  them  from  the  gardens  in  exceeding  sorry  plight ; 
Of  the  Moors  a  full  five  hundred  they  slaughtered  in  that  fight. 

XCIII     Even  to  the  pavilions  the  pursuers  would  not  slack; 
They  had  done  much  and  nobly  when  they  thought  of  turning 
There  Alvar  Salvad(3rez  a  prisoner  did  remain.  [back. 

Then  those  that  ate  his  bread  returned  to  the  lord  Cid  again. 
With  his  own  eyes  he  beheld  it,  to  his  face  they  spake  thereon ; 
My  lord  the  Cid  was  gladdened  of  the  deeds  that  they  had  done. 
"My  knights  we  cannot  other.     Then  barken  unto  me: 
'Tis  a  noble  day,  yet  nobler  will  tomorrow's  battle  be. 


60  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Arm  you  ere  dawn.    The  Bishop  don  Jerome  our  souls  will  shrive, 

Saying  mass  for  us  ere  at  them  we  are  ready  to  let  drive. 

It  shall  be  in  no  other  fashion,  we  will  go  smite  the  foe, 

In  God's  name  and  his  Apostle's  the  good  Saint  James  also. 

For  better  fight  than  let  them  in  the  land  devour  our  bread. ' ' 

* '  With  a  good  will  and  gladly, ' '  in  reply  to  him  they  said. 

And  then  outspake  Minaya,  for  nothing  tarried  he : 
"Since  thou  wishest  this,  give  orders  of  another  sort  to  me. 
For  the  sore  need  of  battle  grant  me  sixseore  horse  and  ten ; 
From  the  far  flank,  when  thou  chargest  will  I  fall  on  them  then. 
On  one  side  or  the  other  the  Lord  will  stand  our  stead." 
"With  right  good  will,"  unto  him  answered  the  Cid  and  said. 

XCIV     And  now  broke  forth  the  morning,  and  now  drew  back 

the  night. 
Those  bands  of  Christ  delayed  not  to  get  ready  for  the  fight. 
At  the  middle  cocks  ere  morning,  mass  for  them  Jerome  did 
And  mass  said,  absolution  in  full  to  them  did  grant :  [chant, 

"Who  face  to  face  shall  perish  this  day  the  fight  within, 
May  Christ  receive  his  spirit,  on  my  soul  I  take  his  sin. 
Cid,  don  Rodrigo,  in  good  hour  thou  girdedst  brand ;  to  thee 
I  sang  the  ma.ss  this  morning.    Grant  then  my  boon  to  me : 
Give  me  to  strike  the  foremost  the  first  stroke  of  the  war. ' ' 
"The  thing  to  thee  is  granted,"  answered  the  Campeador. 

XCV     Out  through  the  Quarter  Towers  full  armed  away  they 
The  lord  Cid  and  his  henchmen  did  counsel  and  consent,     [went. 
Levies  they  left  behind  them,  the  gates  to  watch  and  keep. 
On  the  steed  Baviéca  sprang  the  lord  Cid  with  a  leap. 
Fair  trappings  and  caparisons  girded  that  steed  about. 
With  tlic  standard  from  Valencia  forthwith  they  sallied  out. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  61 

"Were  witli  the  Cid  four  thousand  less  but  a  score  and  ten, 

They  came  gladly  to  a  battle  against  fifty  thousand  men. 

Alvar  Alvarez  and  Minaya  on  the  other  side  did  smite. 

It  seemed  good  to  the  Creator,  and  they  threw  them  into  fliglit. 

"With  the  lance  the  Cid  did  battle,  hand  he  set  to  sword  as  well. 

So  many  ]\Ioors  he  slaughtered  that  their  numbers  none  might 

Down  from  his  elbow  streaming  the  blood  of  battle  came.       [tell. 

Even  against  King  Yússuf  three  buffets  did  he  aim. 

He  'scaped  from  underneath  the  sword  for  his  steed  could  run 

And  bore  him  to  Cullera,  an  exceeding  mighty  place.         [apace, 

Even  so  far  he  of  Bivar  pursued  them  as  they  fled, 

With  a  host  of  gallant  vassals  in  his  company  that  sped. 

He  who  in  happy  hour  was  born  from  that  pursuit  turned  back ; 

He  was  gladdened  of  the  booty  they  had  ta'en  in  the  attack. 

Good  to  him  seemed  Baviéca  from  head  to  tail  that  day. 

In  his  hands  remained  the  booty  of  that  battle  for  a  prey. 

Of  the  twoscore  and  ten  thousand,  when  they  were  counted  o'er. 

There  'scaped  out  of  that  battle  but  an  hundred  men  and  four. 

My  lord  the  Cid  his  henchmen  have  sacked  the  field  around; 

Of  the  gold  and  of  the  silver  three  thousand  marks  they  found, 

And  of  the  other  booty  was  no  measure  to  be  had. 

My  lord  Cid  and  his  vassals  were  all  exceeding  glad. 

For  in  winning  of  the  battle  God's  grace  to  them  was  shown, 

"When  the  King  of  Morocco  in  this  guise  was  overthrown. 

The  Cid  left  Alvar  Fañez  to  count  the  spoil  and  slain. 

"With  fivescore  horse  he  entered  "Valencia  once  again. 

Helmless  he  rode.    Upon  his  brow  the  coif  was  disarrayed. 

Through  the  town  on  Baviéca  he  galloped,  hand  on  blade. 

And  the  ladies  gave  him  welcome,  on  his  coming  that  did  wait. 

My  lord  Cid  stopped  before  them,  reining  in  the  charger  great : 

**  Ladies,  I  bow  before  you.     Groweth  apace  my  fame. 

"While  you  have  held  Valencia  in  the  field  I  overcame. 


62  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

This  was  our  God's  desire  and  all  his  Saints  likewise, 

Since  at  your  coming  hither  He  gave  us  such  a  prize. 

Look  on  the  bloody  sword-blade  and  the  steed  with  sweat  a-foam. 

With  such  are  the  Moriscos  in  the  battle  overcome. 

Pray  now  to  God  that  I  may  yet  live  some  few  years  from  this ; 

You  shall  enter  to  great  honor  and  men  your  hands  shall  kiss." 

So  he  spake  as  he  dismounted.  When  on  the  ground  stood  he, 
When  the  dames  and  his  daughters  and  his  wife  of  high  degree 
Saw  him  get  off,  they  kneeled  them  down  before  the  Campeador : 
' '  Thy  will  be  done,  and  mayst  thou  live  through  many  a  long  year 

The  Cid  unto  the  palace  returning  then  they  brought ;  [more. ' ' 
They  rested  them  on  benches  most  exquisitely  wrought : 
' '  Ha !  Dame  Ximena,  wife  of  mine,  didst  thou  beg  this  of  me  ? 
These  dames  thou  hast  brought  hither  so  well  that  wait  on  thee. 
In  marriage  to  my  vassals  I  am  fain  to  give  them  o'er. 
And  unto  every  lady  for  her  dower  marks  ten  score. 
Men  shall  know  of  their  good  service,  in  the  kingdom  of  Castile. 
With  my  maids'  affairs  hereafter  at  our  leisure  we  shall  deal." 
All  there  rose  up  together,  and  kissed  his  fingers  straight, 
The  rejoicing  in  the  palace  it  was  exceeding  great. 
As  my  lord  Cid  commanded  so  they  brought  the  thing  about. 

Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  tarried  on  the  field  without. 
With  his  men  to  write  and  reckon.    Arms,  tents  and  rich  array 
In  great  store  they  discovered.     It  was  a  sovran  prey. 
The  richest  of  the  treasure  I  am  fain  now  to  recite : 
The  tale  of  all  the  horses  they  could  not  tell  aright ; 
They  wandered  all  caparisoned.    Was  none  to  take  a  steed. 
The  Moors  out  of  their  provinces  had  gathered  wealth  indeed. 
Though  this  were  so,  were  given  to  the  gallant  Campeador 
Of  the  best  of  all  the  horses  for  his  share  fifty  score. 
When  the  Cid  had  so  many  the  rest  content  might  bide. 
What  sti)r(!  of  ricli  pavilions  and  carvon  poles  beside 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  03 

To  the  lord  Cid  and  his  vassals  by  the  chance  of  war  did  fall? 
And  the  King's  tent  of  Morocco  was  the  richest  of  them  all, 
All  gold  wrought  are  the  tent-poles  that  pavilion  that  sustain, 
M}--  lord  Cid  the  great  Campeador  did  at  that  time  ordain 
That  it  stand  pitched ;  to  move  it  let  not  a  Christian  dare. 
"Since  hither  from  Morocco  is  come  a  tent  so  fair, 
To  Alfonso  the  Castilian  I  am  fain  to  send  it  now; 
That  the  Cid  hath  captured  somewhat  then  lightly  will  be  trow. ' ' 

Laden  with  mighty  riches  to  Valencia  came  they  home. 
That  very  noble  cleric,  the  Bishop  don  Jerome, 
When  a  surfeit  of  the  fighting  he  had  had  of  his  hands  twain, 
Was  at  a  loss  to  number  the  Moors  that  he  had  slain. 
What  fell  to  him  of  booty  was  sovran  great  of  worth. 
My  lord  Cid  don  Rodrigo  (in  a  good  time  was  his  birth) 
Of  all  his  fifth  share  of  the  spoil  has  sent  him  the  tenth  part. 


XCVI     The  Christians  in  Valencia  were  all  right  glad  of  heart, 

For  now  excelling  riches,  horses  and  arms  they  had. 

Xiména  and  her  daughters  all  three  were  passing  glad, 

And  the  other  dames;  as  wedded  upon  themselves  looked  they. 

And  my  lord  Cid  the  noble  in  no  wise  would  delay. 

'*  Where  art  thou  brave  Minaya?     Come  hither  to  me  now. 

For  thy  great  share  of  booty,  no  gratitude  hast  thou? 

Of  this  my  fifth  of  all  the  prej^,  I  tell  thee  clear  and  plain, 

Take  unto  thy  good  pleasure,  but  let  the  rest  remain. 

And  tomorrow  in  the  morning  thou  shalt  certainly  ride  out 

With  the  horses  of  my  portion  that  I  captured  in  the  rout, 

With  the  saddles  and  the  bridles  and  the  swords  that  them  behove, 

For  the  sake  of  my  lady  and  for  my  daughters'  love. 

Since  Alfonso  sent  the  ladies  whither  they  were  content. 

These  same  two  hundred  horses  to  him  thou  slialt  present. 


64  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

That  of  him  who  rules  Valencia  the  King  no  ill  may  say." 

He  bade  go  with  Minaya  Per  Vermudóz  straightway. 
The  next  day  in  the  morning  they  departed  with  all  speed, 
And  a  full  two  hundred  henchmen  along  with  them  they  lead, 
"With  greetings  from  the  Cid  who  fain  would  kiss  his  hands 
Even  out  of  the  battle  where  my  lord  Cid  won  the  fight,    [aright : 
For  a  gift  he  sent  Alfonso  of  horses  good  ten  score : 
' '  While  I  have  breath  within  me,  I  will  serve  him  evermore. ' ' 

XCVII  They  have  issued  from  Valencia.  And  they  fettle  them 
They  must  watch  well  so  mighty  a  booty  do  they  bear,  [to  fare. 
And  night  and  day  they  hastened  for  they  gave  themselves  no  rest. 
The  mountains  that  divide  the  lands  they  have  passed  o'er  the 
And  the  folk  they  fell  to  asking  where  Alfonso  then  abode,  [crest. 

XCVIII     O'er  the  mountains,  o'er  the  rivers,  o'er  the  hills  they 

took  the  road. 
And  at  length  before  Valladolid  where  the  King  lay  they  were. 
Minaya  and  Per  Vermudóz  sent  tidings  to  him  there, 
That  reception  to  their  followers  he  might  bid  his  men  extend. 
"My  lord  Cid  of  Valencia  presents  with  us  doth  send." 

XCIX    Glad  was  the  King.    Man  gladder  you  never  j'^et  did  see. 

He  commanded  all  his  nobles  to  ride  forth  hastily. 

And  forth  among  the  first  of  them  did  King  Alfonso  go. 

Of  him  who  in  good  hour  was  born  the  tidings  for  to  know. 

Know  you  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  happed  in  that  place  to  be, 

Also  Count  don  Garcia  the  Cid's  worst  enemy. 

Of  the  tidings  some  were  merry,  and  some  were  all  forlorn. 

They  caught  siglit  of  his  henchmen  wlio  in  hapi)y  hour  was  born. 

They  feared  it  was  an  army  for  no  lierald  came  before. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  65 

Straigrhtway  the  King  Alfonso  crossed  himself  o'er  and  o'er. 

Minaya  and  Per  Vermudóz  came  forward  with  all  speed, 

They  leaped  from  the  saddle,  thej^  dismounted  from  the  steed. 

Before  the  King  Alfonso  upon  their  knees  they  fell. 

They  kissed  the  ground  beneath  him,  they  kissed  his  feet  as  well : 

"Now  a  boon,  King  Alfonso.     Thou  art  great  and  glorious. 

For  my  lord  Cid  the  Campeador  do  we  embrace  thee  thus. 

He  holds  himself  thy  vassal ;  he  owns  thee  for  his  lord. 

He  prizes  high  the  honor  thou  didst  to  him  accord. 

O  King,  but  a  few  days  agone  in  the  fight  he  overcame 

The  King  out  of  Morocco,  Yússuf  (that  is  his  name). 

With  a  host  of  fifty  thousand  from  the  field  he  drove  away. 

The  booty  that  he  captured  was  a  great  and  sovran  prey. 

Great  wealth  unto  his  followers  because  of  this  did  fall. 

He  sends  thee  tenscore  horses  and  doth  kiss  thy  hands  withal. 

Said  King  Alfonso: 

"Gladly  to  accept  them  am  I  fain. 
To  the  Cid  who  sent  me  such  a  gift  I  send  my  thanks  again. 
When  I  do  unto  his  liking,  may  he  live  to  see  the  day." 

Thereat  were  many  of  good  cheer  and  kissed  his  hands  straight- 
way. 
Grieved  was  Count  don  Garcia.     Wroth  was  his  heart  within. 
Apart  he  went  a  little  with  ten  men  of  his  kin : 
"A  marvel  is  this  matter  of  the  Cid,  so  grows  his  fame. 
Now  by  the  honor  that  he  hath  we  shall  be  put  to  shame. 
Kings  he  o'erthroweth  lightly,  and  lightly  bringeth  steeds 
As  though  he  dead  had  found  them ;  we  are  minished  by  his  deeds. ' ' 


C     Hear  now  of  King  Alfonso  what  he  said  upon  this  score ; 
"Thanks  be  to  the  Creator  and  the  lord  Saint  Isidore 
For  the  two  hundred  horses  that  the  Cid  to  me  hath  sent. 


66  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Yet  shall  he  serve  me  better  in  this  my  government. 

To  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  and  Per  Vermudóz  I  say 

That  you  forthwith  clothe  your  bodies  in  honorable  array, 

And  as  you  shall  require  it  of  me  take  battle-gear 

Such  as  before  Roy  Diaz  in  good  manner  shall  appear. 

Take  then  the  gift  I  give  you  even  these  horses  three. 

As  it  seems  to  my  avisement,  as  my  heart  telleth  me, 

Out  of  all  these  adventures  some  good  will  come  to  light." 

CI     They  kissed  his  hands  and  entered  to  take  their  rest  that 
In  all  things  that  they  needed  he  bade  men  serve  them  well,  [night. 

Of  the  two  Heirs  of  Carrion  now  am  I  fain  to  tell, 
How  secretl}^  they  counselled  what  thing  should  be  their  cast : 
"Of  my  lord  Cid  the  high  affairs  go  forward  wondrous  fast. 
Let  us  demand  his  daughters  that  with  them  we  may  wed. 
Our  fortune  and  our  honor  thereby  may  be  well  sped." 
Unto  the  King  Alfonso  with  their  secret  forth  went  they. 

CII     "As  from  our  King  and  Master  a  boon  of  thee  we  pray — 
By  favor  of  th}^  counsel  we  desire  to  obtain 
That  thou  ask  for  us  in  marriage  of  the  Cid  his  daughters  twain. 
With  honor  and  with  profit  shall  the  match  for  them  be  fraught. ' ' 

Thereon  for  a  full  hour's  space  pondered  the  King  and  thought 
"I  cast  out  the  good  Campeador,  and  wrong  I  do  him  still 
For  his  good  to  me.    I  know  not  if  the  match  be  to  his  will. 
But  we  in  hand  will  take  it,  since  so  your  pleasures  tend." 

Alvar  Fañez  and  Per  Vermudóz,  for  them  the  King  let  send. 
He  took  them  to  a  hall  apart : 

"Now  barken  to  me  both 
Minaya  and  Per  Vermudóz.    The  Cid  my  service  doth ; 
The  Campeador,  his  pardon  well  hath  he  earned  of  me. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  67 

And  shall  have  it.    I  will  meet  him,  if  so  his  will  sliall  be. 
In  parley  other  tidings  of  my  court  I  will  make  known ; 
Didago  and  Ferrando,  the  Heirs  of  Carrion, 
Are  fain  to  wed  his  daughters.    Bear  ye  the  message  well, 
And  I  pray  you  that  these  tidings  to  the  Campeador  ye  tell. 
It  will  be  unto  his  honor,  great  will  his  fame  have  grown. 
When  he  becomes  the  father  of  the  Heirs  of  Carrion." 

Minaya  spake:  (Per  Vermudóz  was  glad  of  that  he  spake) 
' '  To  ask  him  thy  desire  we  will  even  undertake. 
And  the  Cid  shall  do  thereafter  as  his  pleasure  shall  decide." 

"Say  to  the  Cid  Roy  Diaz  that  was  born  in  a  glad  tide, 
That  I  will  parley  with  him  in  the  best  place  he  may. 
And  there  shall  be  the  boundary  wherever  he  shall  say. 
To  my  lord  Cid  in  all  things  will  I  show  my  favor  plain." 

Unto  the  King  thej''  gave  farewell,  and  got  them  gone  again, 
And  onward  to  Valencia  they  hastened  with  their  force. 

When  the  good  Campeador  had  heard,  swiftly  he  got  to  horse, 
And  came  to  meet  them  smiling,  and  strong,  embraced  the  two. 
*  *  Minaya  and  Per  Vermudóz,  ye  are  come  back  anew ! 
There  are  not  many  countries  where  two  such  gallants  dwell. 
From  my  lord  King  Alfonso  what  tidings  are  to  tell? 
Is  he  content?    Did  he  vouchsafe  to  take  the  gift  from  me?" 

Said  Minaya,  ' '  In  his  soul  and  heart  right  well  content  is  he, 
And  his  good  will  he  sendeth  unto  thee  furthermore." 
Said  the  Cid:  "To  the  Creator  now  mighty  thanks  therefor." 

The  Leonese  Alfonso  his  pleasure  they  made  known 
That  the  Cid  should  give  his  daughters  to  the  Heirs  of  Carrion. 
He  deemed  it  would  make  him  glorious  and  cause  his  fame  to 
And  in  all  truth  and  honor  would  advise  him  even  so.       [grow, 

When  my  lord  the  Cid  had  heard  it,  the  noble  Campeador, 
Then  a  long  time  much  pondering  he  turned  thi^  tidings  o'er, 
"For  this  to  Christ  my  master  do  I  give  thanks  again. 


68  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

I  was  sent  forth  to  exile  and  my  honor  suffered  stain. 
That  which  is  mine  I  conquered  by  mine  endeavor  high. 
Unto  God  for  the  King's  favor  a  thankful  man  am  I, 
And  that  for  them  of  Carrion  thej'  ask  my  daughters  two. 
Minaya  and  Per  Vermudóz,  thereof  what  thinketh  you?" 

"Wliate'er  shall  be  j-^our  pleasure,  that  is  it  we  shall  say." 

Said  the  Cid : 

' '  The  Heirs  of  Carrion,  of  a  great  line  are  they, 
And  they  are  proud  exceeding,  and  their  favor  fair  at  court. 
Yet  ill  doth  such  a  marriage  with  my  desire  comport. 
But  since  it  is  his  pleasure  that  is  of  more  worth  than  we. 
Let  us  talk  thereof  a  little,  but  secret  let  us  be. 
May  the  Lord  God  in  Heaven  accord  us  as  is  best. ' ' 

' '  Besides  all  this  Alfonso  this  word  to  thee  addressed : 
He  would  come  to  parley  with  thee  in  what  place  thou  art  fain. 
He  desircth  well  to  ^see  thee  and  honor  thee  again. 
Then  what  to  do  is  fittest  ye  might  be  well  agreed. ' ' 

Said  the  Cid:  "Now  by  this  saying  I  am  well  pleased  in- 
deed." 

"Where  thou  wilt  hold  this  parley"  said  Minaya,  "ponder 
'  *  In  that  the  king  desired  it,  no  wondrous  thing  befell,        [well. ' ' 
That  wherever  we  might  find  him  we  might  seek  him  in  his  way, 
As  to  our  King  and  Master,  our  high  devoir  to  pay. 
Haply  we  may  desire  what  good  to  him  shall  seem. 
Nigh  to  the  river  Tagus  that  is  a  noble  stream, 
If  so  my  lord  desire  it,  we  will  hold  the  parley  there. ' ' 

He  wrote  the  letters  straightway  and  sealed  them  well  and 
And  then  unto  two  horsemen  he  gave  the  letters  o'er.  [fair. 

Whatso  the  King  desireth,  that  will  the  Campeador. 

cm     Unto  tb(!  King  much  honored,  the  letters  they  present. 
When  he  had  looked  upon  them,  then  was  his  heart  content. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  69 

"To  the  Cid  who  in  good  time  girt  brand  my  greeting  do  I  send, 
And  let  us  hold  the  parley  when  three  weeks  are  at  an  end. 
If  I  yet  live,  then  doubtless  I  shall  wait  him  in  that  place." 
They  tarried  not,  but  hastened  home  to  the  Cid  apace. 

On  both  sides  for  the  parley  they  got  ready  point  device. 
In  Castile  was  ne  'er  such  f oison  of  mules  without  a  price. 
Nor  so  many  fair-paced  palfreys,  nor  strong  steeds  swift  to  guide, 
Nor  so  many  noble  pennons  on  the  stout  lances  tied, 
And  shields  whereof  the  bosses  did  with  gold  and  silver  shine. 
Robes,  furs  and  Alexandrian  cloth  of  satin  woven  fine. 
And  the  King  gave  his  order,  to  send  nuich  victual  there, 
To  the  waters  of  the  Tagus  where  the  parley  they  prepare. 
The  King  leads  many  a  good  troop,  and  Carrion 's  Heirs  are  gay. 
And  here  they  run  in  debt  apace,  and  there  again  they  pay, 
For  they  thought  to  have  great  profit  and  increase  manifold, 
And  whatso  they  should  desire,  goods  of  silver  and  of  gold. 
And  now  hath  King  Alfonso  got  swiftly  to  his  horse, 
"With  counts  and  little  nobles  and  vassals  in  great  force. 
As  for  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  great  companies  they  bring. 
From  León  and  from  Galicia  came  much  people  with  the  King; 
Know  well,  the  levies  of  Castile,  they  are  a  countless  train. 
And  straight  unto  the  parley  they  rode  with  slackened  rein. 


CIV     In  the  city  of  Valencia,  my  lord  Cid  Campeador 
Did  not  tarry,  but  the  parley,  he  prepared  himself  therefor. 
There  were  stout  mules  a-many  and  palfreys  swift  to  course, 
Great  store  of  goodly  armour,  and  many  a  fleet  war-horse. 
Many  fair  cloaks  and  mantles,  and  many  skins  withal ; 
In  raiment  of  all  colors  are  clad  both  great  and  small. 
Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  and  Per  Vermudóz  that  wight, 
Martin  Muñoz  in  Montemayór  that  held  the  rule  of  right, 


70  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

And  Martin  Antolinez  that  in  Burgos  had  his  home, 

And  that  most  worthy  cleric,  the  Bishop  don  Jerome, 

And  with  Alvar  Salvadorez  Alvar  Alvarez  beside, 

And  likewise  ]\Iuño  Gustioz  a  gallant  knight  and  tried. 

Also  Galind  Garciaz,  that  in  Aragón  abode. 

These  to  ride  with  the  good  Campeador  got  ready  for  the  road. 

And  the  people  in  the  palace  prepared  them  all  and  one. 

Unto  Alvar  Salvadorez  and  the  man  of  Aragón, 
Galind  Garciaz,  his  command  has  given  the  Campeador 
That  heart  and  soul  Valencia  they  shall  guard  it  and  watch  o'er. 
And,  moreover,  all  the  others  on  their  behests  shall  wait. 
And  my  lord  Cid  has  ordered  that  they  bar  the  castle  gate 
And  nowise  throw  it  open  either  by  night  or  day. 
His  wife  and  his  two  daughters  within  the  hold  are  they, 
Whom  he  loves  best,  and  the  ladies  that  do  their  pleasure  still. 
And  he  has  so  disposed  it,  even  as  a  good  lord  will. 
That  not  a  soul  among  them  shall  venture  from  the  tower. 
Till  to  them  he  returneth,  who  was  born  in  happy  hour. 

They  issued  from  Valencia,  forward  they  spurred  along. 
On  their  right  were  many  horses,  that  were  both  swift  and  strong. 
The  Cid  had  ta'en  them.    No  man  would  have  given  him  a  steed. 
And  he  rideth  to  the  parley,  the  which  he  had  decreed 
With  the  King.    In  passage  of  a  day,  he  came  the  King  before. 
When  anear  they  saw  him  coming,  the  gallant  Campeador, 
With  great  worship  to  receive  him,  forth  unto  him  they  ride. 
When  he  had  looked  upon  them,  who  was  born  in  a  glad  tide, 
He  halted  his  companions  save  his  knights  of  dearest  worth. 
Witli  fifteen  of  his  henchmen  he  leaped  down  unto  the  earth. 
As  lie  who  in  good  hour  was  born  had  willed  tliat  it  should  be. 
Forthwith  to  earth  he  bent  him  on  the  hand  and  on  the  knee. 
And  the  grass  of  tlic  meadow  with  his  very  teeth  he  rent, 
And  wept  exceeding  sorely  so  great  was  his  content. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  71 

How  well  unto  Alfonso  to  do  homage  doth  he  know, 

Aud  there  before  his  sovereign's  feet  he  cast  him  even  so. 

As  for  the  King  Alfonso,  at  heart  it  irked  him  sore : 

"Rise  up!   Rise  up  upon  thy  feet,  0  thou  Cid  Campeador, 

And  kiss  my  hand,  nor  prithee  in  this  guise  my  feet  embrace, 

And  if  thou  wilt  not  do  it,  thou  shalt  not  have  my  grace. ' ' 

But  natheless  the  good  Campeador  yet  knelt  on  bended  knee : 

"As  of  my  rightful  master,  I  ask  a  boon  of  thee, 

And  namely  that  thy  favor  on  me  thou  wilt  bestow. 

So  that  all  men  about  us  the  thing  may  hear  and  know." 

Said  the  King: 

"Now  that  right  gladly  and  of  good  heart 
And  here  I  give  thee  pardon,  and  my  favor  I  renew,  [will  I  do ; 
And  thee  unto  m}^  kingdom  right  welcome  I  will  make." 

My  lord  the  Cid  addressed  him,  after  this  wise  he  spake : 
"Gramercy,  lord  Alfonso,  I  will  take  what  thou  hast  given. 
I  will  utter  forth  for  this  my  thanks  unto  our  God  in  Heaven, 
And  then  to  thee,  and  to  the  bands  that  round  about  me  stand. ' ' 

And  on  his  knees  yet  kneeling,  he  kissed  Alfonso's  hand; 
To  his  feet  he  rose,  and  on  the  lips  greeted  him  with  a  kiss. 
The  others  in  the  presence  they  were  well  pleased  at  this. 
It  irked  Garci  Ordonez  and  Alvar  Díaz  sore. 

My  lord  Cid  spake  and  uttered  this  saying  furthermore. 

"To  our  Father  and  Creator  I  offer  thanks  again, 
That  my  lord  the  King  his  pardon  he  vouclisafed  me  to  attain. 
In  the  day  and  the  night  season  the  Lord  will  cherish  me. 
Thou  shalt  be  my  guest,  my  master,  if  so  thy  pleasure  be." 
Said  the  King : 

' '  Today  in  no  way  were  that  seemly  in  my  sight. 
Thou  art  but  now  come  hither,  but  we  came  in  last  night. 
Today,  therefore.  Cid  Campeador,  thou  slialt  remain  my  guest, 
And  on  the  morrow  morning  we  shall  be  at  thy  behest." 


72  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

M3'  lord  the  Cid  has  kissed  his  haiid,  granting  it  should  be  so. 
Then  came  the  Heirs  of  Carrion,  their  courtesy  to  show : 
"We  greet  thee  Cid.     Thou  wast  brought  forth  in  an  hour  of 

promise  high. 
And  so  far  will  we  serve  thee  as  in  our  power  may  lie." 
"So  grant  it  the  Creator,"  to  them  the  Cid  replied. 
The  Cid  my  lord  Roy  Diaz,  who  was  born  in  a  good  tide, 
Unto  the  King  his  master  was  guest  for  that  day's  space, 
Who  could  not  let  him  from  his  sight,  he  held  him  in  such  grace. 
At  the  Cid's  beard  grown  so  swiftly,  long  while  the  King  did 
At  the  Cid  much  they  marvelled,  as  many  as  were  there,      [stare. 

And  now  the  day  was  over,  and  upon  them  fell  the  night. 
The  next  day  in  the  morning  the  sun  rose  clear  and  bright. 
The  Cid  had  bidden  his  henchmen  meat  for  all  men  to  array. 
With  my  lord  Cid  the  Campeador  so  well  content  were  they 
That  all  were  very  merry,  and  moreover  of  one  mind 
That  for  three  years  together  so  well  they  had  not  dined. 

The  next  day  in  the  morning,  when  at  last  the  sun  outshone, 
Then  did  Jerome  the  Bishop  his  matin  song  intone. 
And  when  from  mass  they  issued,  all  gathered  in  one  place. 
And  the  King  did  not  tarry  but  began  his  speech  apace : 
"Hear  me  now,  counts  and  nobles,  and  all  my  henchmen  leal — 
Unto  my  lord  Cid  Campeador  I  needst  must  make  appeal. 
God  grant  unto  his  profit  that  the  thing  may  prove  to  be. 
Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  I  ask  their  hands  of  thee, 
That  thou  wilt  in  marriage  give  them  to  the  Heirs  of  Carrion 

twain. 
To  me  the  match  s(;ems  noble,  and  thereon  there  hangs  much  gain. 
They  ask  them  of  thee.    To  that  end  I  add  my  own  command. 
On  my  side  and  thine  as  many  as  round  about  us  stand, 
My  lienchmen  and  thy  henchmen,  let  them  therefor  intercede. 
Give  them  to  us  my  lord  the  Cid.    So  God  thee  keep  and  speed." 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  73 

Said  the  Cid : 

"My  girls  to  marry  are  hardly  yet  in  state, 
For  their  days  are  not  many,  nor  are  their  ages  great. 
As  for  the  Heirs  of  Carrion,  much  fame  of  them  men  say ; 
They  suit  well  with  my  daughters,  and  for  better  e'en  than  they. 
'Twas  I  begot  m^^  daughtei-s,  but  thou  didst  rear  the  twain. 
They  and  I  for  that  bounty  yet  in  thy  debt  remain. 
Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  unto  thee  do  I  present. 
To  whom  thou  wilt  then  give  them  and  I  will  be  content. ' ' 

Said  the  King:  "My  thanks  unto  thee  and  to  all  the  court  I 
Upon  their  feet  got  swiftly  the  Heirs  of  Carrion;  [own." 

Of  him  who  in  good  hour  was  born,  lightly  they  kissed  the  hands. 
Before  the  King  Alfonso  they  made  exchange  of  brands. 

Out  spake  the  King  Alfonso  like  a  man  of  gentle  race : 
"My  thanks,  so  noble  art  thou,  but  first  to  God  for  grace 
That  for  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  thou  givest  thy  daughters  twain. 
Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  in  hand  I  have  them  ta'en. 
To  Carrion's  Heirs  as  consorts  those  ladies  I  award. 
I  give  away  thy  daughters  as  brides  with  thine  accord. 
May  it  please  God  that  thou  therewith  in  full  content  mayest  rest. 
Behold,  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  that  wait  on  thy  behest. 
Let  them  go  with  thee,  prithee,  for  I  from  hence  must  wend. 
Three  hundred  marks  of  silver  I  give  them  to  this  end. 
To  spend  upon  the  marriage  or  what  else  pleaseth  thee, 
Since  within  high  Valencia  in  thy  wardship  they  will  be. 
The  sons  and  the  daughters  shall  thj'  children  be  all  four ; 
Whate'er  shall  be  thy  pleasure,  do  with  them.  Campeador." 

The  Cid  received  them  from  him,  and  the  King's  hand  did 
"My  sovereign  and  my  master,  I  think  thee  well  for  this.  [kiss. 
Thou  shalt  give  away  my  daughters,  for  I  will  not  do  the  deed." 
After  the  parle  was  over  they  gave  pledges  and  agreed 


74  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

That  the  next  daj'  in  the  morning  when  forth  the  sun  should 

flame, 
All  persons  at  the  parley  should  return  to  whence  they  came. 
Thereby  both  fame  and  honor  had  the  lord  Cid  Campeador, 
And  many  mules  and  mighty,  and  fair  palfreys  furthermore. 
And  fine  and  precious  raiment.    And  to  give  gifts  he  began, 
Whatso  he  would  to  who  would  take,  and  denied  it  to  no  man. 
As  gifts  full  sixty  horses  did  the  lord  Cid  present. 
Whoe'er  was  at  the  parley  therewith  was  full  content. 
Now  were  they  fain  of  parting,  for  night  was  like  to  fall. 

The  King  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  took  by  the  hand  withal. 
In  the  power  of  the  Cid  Campeador  he  put  them  both  straight- 
way. 
** Behold  them  here  thj'"  children;  since  thy  sons-in-law  are  they, 
From  this  day  forth  do  with  them  as  thy  heart  shall  give  accord. 
May  they  serve  thee  as  their  father,  and  keep  thee  for  their  lord. ' ' 

''I  thank  thee  and  accept,  0  King,  the  gift  which  thou  hast 
Mayst  thou  be  well  rewarded  by  God  who  is  in  Heaven,     [given. 


CV    "Of  thee,  my  liege  and  sovran,  a  boon  do  I  request. 
Since  thou  givest  to  wed  my  daughters  in  what  way  likes  thee 

best. 
Choose  one  my  girls  to  give  away,  who  in  thy  place  shall  stand. 
Since  thou  hast  them,  I  will  never  give  them  o'er  with  mine  own 
To  the  Heirs.    Such  satisfaction  to  them  shall  be  dejiied. ' '    [hand 
"Behold  here  Alvar  Fañez,"  the  King  to  him  replied, 
"Take  them  by  the  hand  and  give  them  to  the  Heirs,  even  as  I 
Here  afar  off  have  ta'on  tliem,  as  though  I  were  hard  by; 
And  throughout  all  the  vigil  their  sponsor  shalt  thou  be. 
Wlicn  again  to  me  thou  comcst  tell  all  the  truth  to  me." 

Said  Alvar  Fañez:  "Faith  !   My  lord,  I  am  content  indeed." 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  75 

CVI     To  all  this  with  due  caution,  know  well  they  have  agreed. 

"Ha!  King,  my  lord  Alfonso  much  honored,  for  a  sign 

Of  the  parley  that  we  held  here,  thou  shalt  take  a  gift  of  mine, 

I  bring  thee  thirty  palfreys  that  are  trapped  rich  and  well, 

And  thirty  fleet  war-horses,  each  with  a  noble  selle. 

Take  them  and  I  will  kiss  thy  hand," 

The  King  Alfonso  spake : 
"Deep  in  thy  debt  thou  hast  me.    Thy  present  I  will  take 
Which  thou  givest.    The  Creator  and  all  his  saints  accord 
For  the  kindness  thou  hast  done  me  that  thou  have  a  fair  reward. 
Oh  my  lord  Cid  Roy  Diaz,  thou  hast  done  me  honor  high. 
Full  well  thou  dost  mj'-  service,  and  well  content  am  I, 
Mayst  thou  reap  of  me  some  harvest  ere  my  life  be  at  an  end. 
Into  God's  hands  I  give  thee.    From  the  parley  will  I  wend. 
Hail  God  in  Heaven!  grant  us  our  treaty  well  to  keep." 

CVII     The  Cid  mounted  Baviéca  his  charger  at  a  leap. 

' '  Here  before  my  King  Alfonso  I  saj'  it  openly, 

Who  would  fain  go  to  the  marriage  or  would  have  a  gift  of  me, 

Let  him  come  with  me.    His  profit  shall  be  great,  as  I  conceive." 

Now  of  his  lord  Alfonso  the  lord  Cid  took  his  leave. 
His  company  he  wished  not,  he  departed  from  him  straight. 
There  might  you  see  a  many  of  knights  of  fair  estate 
Taking  leave  of  King  Alfonso,  that  the  while  his  hands  did  kiss : 
"Let  it  be  now  thy  pleasure,  and  prithee  grant  us  this — 
'Neath  the  Cid  to  great  Valencia  now  will  we  march  away 
To  see  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  upon  their  wedding  day. 
And  Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira  that  the  Cid's  dangliters  be." 

Therewith  the  King  was  satisfied  and  gave  them  liberty. 
And  the  King's  bands  diminished  and  the  Cid's  increased  the 
Great  company  of  people  marched  with  the  Campeador,     [more. 

They  rode  straight  to  Valencia  ta'en  when  his  st;n'  was  high. 


76  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

On  Diego  and  Ferrando  he  bade  them  keep  an  eye. 
Muño  Gustioz  and  Per  Vermudóz  they  had  commandment  plain — 
In  all  my  lord  Cid's  household  were  not  a  better  twain — 
The  ways  of  them  of  Carrion  to  discover  them  and  find. 
Ansuór  Gonzálvez  joined  the  Heirs  who  was  a  noisy  hind, 
Loose-tongued,  and  for  untrustful  in  other  things  well  known. 
They  showered  man}"  honors  on  the  Heirs  of  Carrion. 

Behold  them  in  Valencia  that  the  Cid  my  lord  had  ta'en. 
When  they  looked  upon  the  city  they  were  exceeding  fain. 
Muño  Gustioz  and  don  Pero,  to  them  the  lord  Cid  spake : 
"Straightway  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  unto  a  lodging  take. 
But  do  you  tarry  with  them,  so  doth  my  order  run. 
When  entereth  in  the  morning,  when  breaketh  forth  the  sun, 
Of  Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  their  brides,  they  shall  have 

sight. ' ' 

CVIII    Then  every  man  departed  to  his  lodging-place  that  night. 
The  Cid  Campeador  has  entered  his  castle  once  again. 
Abode  him  Dame  Ximena,  she  and  her  daughters  twain. 

"Campeador  who  in  good  season  girt  sword,  thou  hast  come 
May  the  eyes  of  our  faces  behold  thee  many  days,"     [thy  ways; 

"I  am  come,  wife  much  honored,  by  the  Creator's  grace, 
And  sons-in-law  I  bring  thee,  whence  our  fame  shall  wax  apace. 
I  have  married  j^ou  well  my  daughters,  so  thank  me  for  it  well. 

CIX     Forthwith  a-kissing  of  his  hands  his  wife  and  daughters 
And  likewise  all  the  ladies  their  pleasure  still  that  did.  [fell, 

"Thanks  })o  to  the  Creator  and  to  thee,  fair-bearded  Cid, 
What  thing  thou  dost  soever,  it  is  well  done  indeed. 
In  all  thy  days  thy  daughters  shall  never  be  in  need." 

"When  thou  givest  us  in  marriage,  great  wealth  to  us  shall 

fall." 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  77 

CX     "Wife  o'  mine,  Dame  Xiména,  praise  God  who  made  us  all. 

Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  my  girls  to  you  I  say, 

From  your  marriage  in  all  honor  shall  we  increase  alway. 

But  that  I  did  not  begin  it,  the  truth  now  understand ; 

My  lord  Alfonso  sought  you  and  stately  made  demand 

With  such  firm  will,  I  wist  not  how  to  deny  the  thing. 

And  I  put  you  both,  my  daughters,  in  the  keeping  of  the  King. 

Know  that  he  giveth  you  to  wed,  and  that  I  am  not  tiie  man. ' ' 


CXI     To  make  beautiful  the  palace,  then  one  and  all  began. 
There  was  displayed  much  arras  on  wall  and  pavement  both. 
Much  purple  and  much  samite  and  store  of  precious  cloth. 
'Twould  have  pleased  you  in  that  palace  to  have  sat  you  down  to 
And  speedily  together  did  his  knights  assembled  meet.  [eat. 

And  for  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  a.s  at  that  time  they  sent. 
To  horse  they  got  and  onward  to  the  palace  forth  they  went. 
And  fine  is  all  their  raiment,  and  stuff  of  proof  likewise. 
They  came  afoot  and  properly,  God !  in  what  lowly  guise ! 
The  Cid  and  all  his  vassals  received  them  when  tliey  came. 
They  bowed  the  head  before  him ;  they  bowed  before  his  dame ; 
Straightway  to  take  their  places  on  a  noble  seat  the}'  strode. 
Of  my  lord  Cid  all  the  henchmen  exceeding  wisdom  showed, 
His  speech  who  in  good  hour  was  born  in  quiet  they  expect. 

And  now  the  noble  Campeador  hath  risen  up  erect: 
"Since  such  a  deed  is  toward,  why  do  we  tarry  here? 
Come  hither  Alvar  Fañez  whom  I  cherish  and  hold  dear. 
My  daughters  twain,  behold  them,  to  thy  hand  I  give  them  o'er. 
Be  it  known  so  to  perform  it  unto  the  King  I  swore. 
To  fail  in  our  agreement  is  in  no  way  mine  intent. 
To  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  their  brides,  now  with  thine  hand  pre- 

si'nt ; 


78  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Let  them  have  benediction  and  speed  the  wedding  through." 
To  him  replied  Minaya :  ' '  This  will  I  gladly  do. ' ' 
The  ladies  rose.    He  gave  them  into  Minaya 's  care. 
To  Carrion 's  Heirs,  Minaya  now  doth  his  charge  declare : 
"  Lo !    Minaya  here  before  you,  ye  brothers  born  that  be ! 
By  the  hand  of  King  Alfonso,  who  has  laid  this  charge  on  me, 
I  give  to  you  these  ladies  that  are  both  of  noble  blood, 
That  to  wife  ye  take  them  nobly  and  in  fair  guise  and  good. ' ' 
And  with  a  will  and  gladly  to  take  their  brides  they  came, 
And  they  kissed  the  hands  straightway  of  my  lord  Cid  and  his 

dame. 
Thej'  came  forth  from  the  palace  when  all  these  things  were 
And  then  unto  Saint  Mary's  in  haste  they  got  them  gone,     [done, 
Bishop  Jerome  his  vestments  swiftly  to  him  has  ta'en, 
And  he  abode  their  coming  at  the  portal  of  the  fane. 
He  has  given  them  his  blessing,  and  chanted  mass  in  course. 

Wlien  from  the  church  they  issued  with  speed  they  got  to 
They  hastened  from  Valencia  forth  on  the  sandy  shore,     [horse, 
God !  the  Cid  and  his  companions,  how  well  their  arms  they  bore ! 
He  who  in  happy  hour  was  born,  three  times  hath  changed  his 
With  that  he  saw  my  lord  the  Cid  was  well  content  indeed,  [steed. 
For  the  two  Heirs  of  Carrion  have  well  their  steeds  bestrode. 
With  the  ladies  to  Valencia  then  home  again  they  rode. 
In  that  fair  hold  resplendent  was  the  wedding  that  they  had. 
To  rear  up  seven  quintains  the  Cid  next  morning  bade ; 
Before  they  went  to  dinner,  were  the  seven  burst  in  twain. 
Full  fifteen  days  together  at  the  wedding  they  remain. 
The  fifteen  days  well  nigh  are  done;  homeward  the  nobles  ride. 
My  lord  Cid  don  Rodrigo  who  was  born  in  a  good  tide 
Of  the  mules  and  the  palfreys  and  the  battle-chargers  swift, 
Of  beasts  alone  an  hundred  has  granted  forth  in  gift, 
And  cloaks,  fur  capes,  and  raiment  of  other  sort  great  store, 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  79 

And  bestowed  wealth  in  money  in  abundance  furthermore. 
The  vassals  of  my  lord  the  Cid,  for  they  had  counselled  so, 
For  their  part  bridal  tokens  upon  the  guests  bestow. 
He  came  by  great  possession  whoso  thereof  was  fain, 
Who  was  at  the  bridal,  wealthy  came  to  Castile  again. 
Now  are  all  these  guests  together  about  to  ride  away; 
To  Roy  Diaz  in  good  hour  born  their  last  devoirs  they  pay, 
And  likewise  to  the  ladies,  and  his  men  of  high  descent. 
My  lord  Cid  and  his  vassals  they  left  in  high  content. 
They  said  much  honor  of  them  as  was  indeed  their  due, 
Diego  and  Ferrando  were  passing  merry  too; 
Of  the  Count  don  Golzálvo  they  were  the  children  twain. 
And  now  the  guests  came  homeward  unto  Castile  again. 
The  Cid  and  his  two  sons-in-law  in  Valencia  they  stay. 
There  dwell  the  Heirs  until  two  years  have  well  nigh  passed  away. 
It  was  a  mighty  welcome  in  that  city  that  they  had. 
The  Cid  and  all  his  vassals  were  all  exceeding  glad. 
Saint  Mary  and  Our  Father,  may  it  please  them  to  consent 
That  the  Cid  and  he  who  wrought  it  with  the  bridal  be  content. 
Of  this  Cantar  the  couplets  come  now  unto  their  end. 
The  Saints  and  the  Creator  preserve  you  and  defend. 


CANTAE  III 
THE  AFFRONT  OF  CORPES 

CXII     The  Cid  lay  in  Valencia  with  all  his  men  beside ; 

"With  him  the  Heii*s  of  Carrion  his  sons-in-law  abide. 

Upon  his  couch  to  slumber  lay  the  good  Campeador. 

There  fell  a  hard  occasion,  a  thing  they  looked  not  for. 

From  his  cage  came  forth  the  lion,  from  his  bonds  he  broke  away. 

All  men  throughout  the  palace  in  mighty  dread  were  thej^ 

'Neath  the  arm  the  Campeador  his  men  their  mantles  up  have 

ta'en, 

About  his  couch  they  gathered,  and  beside  their  lord  remain. 

As  for  Ferránd  Gonzalvez  the  Heir  of  Carrion, 

He  saw  no  place  to  hide  in ;  chamber  or  tower  was  none. 

Beneath  the  seat  he  crouched  him  so  mighty  was  his  dread. 

And  Didago  Gonzalvez  out  through  the  doorway  fled. 

Crying  aloud:  "Wo!     Carrion  no  more  shall  I  behold." 

Beneath  a  wine-press  timber  he  hid  in  fear  untold. 

Thence  he  brought  cloak  and  tunic  all  filthy  and  forlorn. 
With  that  he  woke  from  slumber,  who  in  happy  hour  was  born, 

And  saw  his  good  men  round  his  couch  in  a  close  ring  that  stood. 
' '  Now  what  is  this  my  henchmen  ?  What  is  it  that  ye  would  ? '  * 
**Ha,  worthy  lord!     The  lion  gave  us  a  fearful  fright." 

The  Cid  leaned  on  his  elbow,  on  his  feet  he  leaped  upright. 

He  flung  his  cloak  on  shoulder.    Straight  for  the  beast  he  made. 

The  lion  when  he  saw  him,  so  sorely  was  afraid 

That  before  the  Cid,  low  cowering,  to  earth  his  head  he  bent. 

My  lord  Cid  don  Rodrigo  him  by  the  neck  has  hent. 

He  drew  him  and  he  dragged  him  and  within  his  cage  shut  fast. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  81 

As  many  as  beheld  it  thought  it  a  marvel  vast. 

And  tlien  through  the  palace  they  returned  unto  the  hall, 
Of  his  sons  the  Cid  made  question,  but  found  them  not  at  all. 
Though  they  shouted  for  them  loudly,  none  answered  to  the  hail. 
And  when  at  last  they  found  them,  oh,  but  their  cheeks  were  pale ! 
Such  mirth  as  in  the  palace  was  ye  never  saw  before; 
But  to  plague  them  was  forbidden  by  the  lord  Cid  Campeador. 
Many  thought  that  but  for  cowards  themselves  the  twain  had 

shown. 
Sore  grieved  at  what  befell  them  were  the  Heirs  of  Carrion. 

CXIII     While  thus  the  affair  standeth  wherein  they  had  such 
A  host  out  of  Morocco  to  besiege  Valencia  came.  [shame, 

Their  camp  within  the  Quarter  Field  have  they  arrayed  aright. 
For  fifty  thousand  chieftains  pavilions  have  they  pight. 
'Twas  the  King  Búcar  if  perchance  of  him  ye  e  'er  heard  tell. 

CXIV    The  Cid  and  all  his  henchmen,  it  pleased  them  passing 
For  so  by  the  lord's  favor  their  gain  should  grow  the  more,  [well. 
But  know  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  at  heart  were  very  sore, 
For  they  saw  of  the  Moriscos  many  and  many  a  tent. 
Which  liked  them  not.    The  brothers  forthwith  apart  they  went. 
"We  would  keep  in  mind  our  profit,  nor  for  the  loss  have  care. 
And  now  within  this  battle  we  must  needs  do  our  share." 
"Such  a  thing  well  may  keep  us  from  seeing  Carrion  more. 
Widows  will  be  the  daughters  of  the  good  Campeador." 

But  Muñoz  Gustióz  hearkened  how  in  secret  they  conferred. 
To  the  Cid  Campeador  he  came  with  the  tale  of  what  he  heard : 
* '  The  two  Heirs  thy  sons-in-law,  their  courage  is  so  strong, 
Because  they  go  to  battle,  for  Carrion  they  long. 
As  God  cherishes  and  keeps  them,  go  bid  them  have  good  heart, 


82  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

That  thej^  in  peace  may  tarry,  nor  in  battle  have  a  part. 

But  with  thee  we  shall  conquer,  and  God  shall  be  our  stay." 

My  lord  Cid  don  Rodrigo  with  a  smile  went  his  wa5^ 
"My  sons,  the  Heirs  of  Carrion.     God  have  you  in  his  care. 
In  your  arms  rest  my  daughters  that  as  the  sun  are  fair. 
And  as  I  yearn  for  battle,  so  of  Carrion  are  ye  fain. 
In  pleasauce  in  Valencia  to  your  hearts  desire  remain, 
For  as  for  these  Moriscos,  them  well  enough  I  know, 
And'bv  grace  of  the  Creator  have  courage  to  o'erthrow. " 


While  they  spoke  thus,  King  Búcar  sent  word  and  conunanded 
the  Cid  to  quit  Valencia  and  go  his  way  in  peace*  Otherwise 
Búcar  would  exact  payment  for  all  that  the  Cid  had  done  in 
the  city.    The  Cid  said  to  him  who  bore  the  message : 

' '  Go  thou  and  say  to  Búcar,  that  son  of  an  enemy,  that  before 
three  days  are  past,  I  will  give  him  all  that  he  asks. ' ' 

The  next  daj'  the  Cid  ordered  all  his  men  to  take  up  their 
weapons,  and  marched  out  against  the  Moors.  The  Heirs  of 
Carrion  on  that  occasion  sought  the  van  of  him.  After  the  Cid 
had  marshalled  his  men  in  order  of  battle,  don  Ferrando,  one 
of  the  Heirs,  went  forth  to  attack  a  Moor  who  was  called  Alad- 
ra! The  Moor,  when  he  beheld  don  Ferrando,  came  forward 
likewise  to  attack  him.  Thereupon  the  Heir  of  Carrion,  being 
overcome  with  fear  of  the  Moor,  wheeled  his  horse  and  fled  before 
him.     Single-handed  he  dared  not  await  the  Moor's  coming. 

When  Pero  Vermudóz,  who  was  hard  by,  beheld  this,  he 
attacked  the  Moor,  fought  with  him  and  slew  him.     Then  he 

•  At  this  point  a  lacuna  occurs  in  tlio  text  of  tho  poem.  The  prose 
passage  is  supplied  from  the  Chronicle  of  the  Twenty  Kings,  an  emendation 
due  to  I'idal. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  83 

took  the  Moor's  horse  and  went  in  quest  of  the  lieir  who  was  in 
full  flight. 

"Don  Ferrando,"  he  said  to  him,  "take  this  horse  and  tell 
all  men  that  thou  didst  slay  the  INIoor,  his  master.  I  will  be  thy 
witness. ' ' 

And  the  Heir  replied:  "Don  Pero  Vermudóz,  I  thank  thee 
greatly  for  what  thou  saj^est. 

"May  I  see  that  time  when  payment  I  shall  make  to  thee  twice 
For  all  that  thou  deservest."  [o'er 

The  twain  turned  back  once  more. 
Don  Pero  there  bore  witness  to  Ferrando 's  brag  and  lie. 
The  Cid  and  all  his  vassals  were  gladdened  much  thereby. 

"If  God  our  Father  wills  it,  in  Heaven  that  doth  dwell, 
My  sons-in-law  in  battle  shall  both  acquit  them  well." 

So  they  spake.    And  the  two  armies  now  the  advance  began. 
In  the  Moorish  host  resounded  of  tlie  drums  the  rataplan. 
It  was  among  the  Christians  a  marvel  sore  to  some. 
For  never  had  they  heard  it,  since  but  newl}'  were  they  come. 
On  Diego  and  Ferrando  greater  wonder  yet  did  fall, 
And  of  their  free  will  thither  they  would  not  have  come  at  all. 
To  what  he  said  who  was  brought  forth  in  happy  hour  give  ear : 
' '  Ho !  now  don  Pero  Vermudóz,  who  art  my  nephew  dear, 
Didago  and  Ferrando  now  keep  them  well  for  me. 
For  in  mine  eyes  my  sons-in-law  are  dear  exceedinglj'. 
By  God's  help  the  Moriscos  shall  hold  the  field  no  more." 

CXVI     "In  the  name  of  every  charity  I  tell  thee.  Campeador, 

That  today  to  be  their  keeper  I  never  will  remain. 

To  me  they  matter  little — let  him  keep  them  who  is  fain. 

I  with  my  men  about  me  against  their  van  will  smite ; 

Do  thou  with  thine  hold  firmly  the  rearward  <.f  the  fiirht. 


84  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Then  canst  thou  aid  me  lightly  if  peril  should  arise." 
Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  came  then  to  him  likewise. 

"Oh,  Cid,  give  ear,  and  hearken,  Oh  faithful  Campeador! 

For  surely  in  this  battle  shall  God  himself  make  war, 

And  He  will  make  thee  worthy  with  Him  therein  to  share. 

Where'er  thou  deemest  fitting  bid  us  attack  them  there. 

Each  man  must  do  his  duty.    Upon  them  let  us  thrust. 

On  God  and  on  thy  fortune  now  hangeth  all  our  trust. ' ' 
My  lord  Cid  said:  "Then  prithee  tarry  here  yet  awhile." 
Lo !  don  Jerome  the  Bishop  who  was  armed  in  gallant  style, 

He  stopped  before  the  Campeador.    Fair  fortune  had  he  aye. 

'  *  The  Mass  of  Holy  Trinity  I  sang  for  thee  this  day. 

For  this  cause  from  mine  own  country  did  I  seek  thee  and  ensue, 

Since  in  the  slaughter  of  the  Lloor  such  great  delight  I  knew. 

And  I  am  fain  to  honor  both  mine  order  and  mine  hand. 

In  the  forefront  of  the  battle  it  is  my  desire  to  stand. 

And  crosses  on  my  pennant,  and  blazoned  arms  have  I. 

If  it  be  God  his  pleasure,  I  am  fain  mine  arms  to  try, 

That  so  at  last  my  spirit  in  perfect  peace  may  be. 

And  thou  mayst  be,  my  lord  the  Cid,  better  content  with  me. 

If  thou  dost  me  not  this  honor,  from  thy  side  I  will  retire. ' ' 
The  lord  Cid  gave  him  answer : 

*  *  I  am  pleased  with  thy  desire. 

Of  the  Moors  go  make  a  trial,  lo,  where  they  are  in  sight. 

F'rom  hence  we  shall  behold  it,  how  the  Abbot  fights  the  fight." 


CXVII    And  don  Jerome  the  Bishop  went  spurring  thence  away. 
'Gainst  the  end  of  the  encampment  he  guided  forth  the  fray. 
By  bis  good  hap  and  God's  mercy  who  ever  loved  him  well, 
At  the  first  stroke  he  delivered  two  Moors  before  him  fell. 
When  in  twain  his  lance  was  broken,  he  set  hand  upon  the  blade. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  85 

Well  was  he  tried.    And  Name  of  God !  what  a  fair  fight  he  made ! 
Two  with  the  lance,  and  with  the  sword  five  of  the  foe  he  slew. 
The  Moors  are  very  many.    Around  him  close  they  drew, 
They  did  not  pierce  his  armour,  though  thoy  laid  on  strokes  of 

power. 
His  eyes  beheld  the  Bishop,  who  was  born  in  happy  hour. 
He  caught  his  shield,  the  battle-spear  he  laid  it  low  along. 
He  spurred  Baviéca  the  well-paced  steed  and  strong. 
He  went  to  smite  against  them  with  all  his  soul  and  heart. 
The  foremost  ranks  of  battle  did  the  lord  Cid  dispart : 
Of  the  Moors  he  struck  down  seven,  and  five  of  them  hath  slain. 
God  was  well  pleased,  the  battle  it  was  granted  him  to  gain. 
My  lord  Cid  and  his  henchmen  in  hot  pursuit  they  went. 
There  had  you  seen  the  stakes  uptom  and  may  a  tent-rope  rent, 
And  all  the  ten-poles  falling  that  were  wrought  so  rich  and  brave. 
From  the  tents,  my  lord  Cid's  vassals  King  Búcar's  henchmen 

drave. 


CXVIII     Out  of  the  tents  they  drave  them ;  on  them  in  pursuit 

they  flew. 
Many  arms  and  many  a  hauberk,  had  you  seen  there  cloven 
And  many  a  head  well  helmed  in  the  battle  fallen  low,  [through, 
And  many  a  steed  masterless  that  galloped  to  and  fro. 
For  seven  miles  together  they  followed  up  the  flight. 
As  he  followed,  on  King  Búcar  the  Cid  mj-  lord  did  liglit : 
"Turn  hither,  Búcar.    Thou  hast  come  from  the  land  over  sea. 
The  Cid  whose  beard  is  might}^  thou  shalt  moot  with  presently. 
Let  us  greet,  and  in  fast  friendship  let  each  to  each  be  bound." 
To  the  Cid  answered  Búcar : 

"Such  a  friendship  God  confound. 
A  sword  in  hand  thou  bearest,  and  1  see  thee  spur  amain, 


86  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Seemeth  well  that  thou  upon  me  to  tiy  that  blade  art  fain. 
If  my  horse  keep  from  stumbling  and  falleth  not  with  me. 
Thou  shalt  not  overtake  me  till  we  ride  into  the  sea." 

My  lord  Cid  answered:  "With  the  truth  that  word  no  faith 

shall  keep. ' ' 

A  good  steed  had  Búcar  that  sprang  off  great  leap  on  leap. 
But  the  Cid's  Baviéca  upon  him  fast  did  gain. 
Three  fathoms  from  the  water  was  Búcar  overta'en. 
He  has  lifted  up  Colada.    A  great  stroke  did  he  smite. 
The  carbuncles  upon  his  helm  he  has  smitten  through  forthright. 
He  cut  straight  through  the  helmet,  all  else  in  twain  he  clave, 
And  slashing  to  the  girdle  of  the  King  came  down  the  glaive. 
Búcar  the  King  from  oversea  the  Cid  hath  overthrown. 
Well  worth  a  thousand  golden  marks  was  the  great  sword  Tizón, 
That  he  took  there.     'Twas  a  victory  most  marvelous  and  great. 
Here  my  lord  Cid  got  honor  and  all  that  on  him  wait. 


CXIX     And  now  with  all  that  booty,  homeward  again  they 

wheeled. 
And  be  it  known  that  steadfastly  they  plundered  all  the  field. 
With  him  who  in  good  hour  was  born  to  the  tents  they  came  once 
My  lord  the  Cid  Roy  Diaz,  the  famous  Campeador,  [more; 

With  two  swords  he  greatly  cherished  through  the  carnage  swiftly 

passed. 
O'er  his  brow  his  cap  was  wrinkled,  back  was  his  mail-hood  cast, 
And  but  a  little  ruffled  was  the  cap  upon  his  hair. 
On  every  side  his  henchmen  came  thronging  to  him  there. 
My  lord  the  Cid  saw  somewhat  and  was  well  pleased  therebj^. 
For  he  looked  forth  before  him  lifting  up  his  eyes  on  high. 
And  Dit'go  and  Ferrando  he  beheld,  that  near  him  drew. 
Of  the  Count  don  Gonzálvo  the  children  were  the  two. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  87 

My  lord  the  Cid  smiled  beautifully,  for  a  glad  man  was  he. 

"Are  ye  come  here,  my  sous-in-law ?    Ye  are  both  sous  to  me. 
I  know  that  with  the  fighting  ye  are  right  well  content. 
To  Carrion  fair  tidings  that  concern  you  shall  be  sent, 
How  by  us  the  King  Búcar  unto  defeat  was  thrust. 
As  sure  as  unto  the  Lord  God  and  all  his  saints  I  trust, 
With  the  rout  of  the  foeman  shall  we  be  satisfied." 

Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  came  now  unto  his  side. 
Hacked  with  the  swords  was  all  the  shield  that  at  his  neck  he  wore. 
The  strokes  of  many  lances  had  scarred  it  furthermore. 
The}'^  that  those  strokes  had  stricken,  had  reaped  therefrom  no 

gain. 
Down  the  blood  streamed  from  his  elbows.     More  than  twenty 

had  he  slain, 

"To  God  and  to  the  Father  on  High  now  praises  be. 
And  Cid  who  in  good  hour  wast  born  so  likewise  unto  thee. 
Thou  slewest  the  King  Búcar,  and  we  ha'  won  the  day. 
To  thee  and  to  thy  vassals  belongeth  all  the  prey. 
And  as  for  thy  two  sons-in-law  they  have  been  proved  aright, 
Wlio  got  their  fill  of  Moorish  war  upon  the  field  of  fight," 

Said  my  lord  Cid  in  answer,  "Therefore  am  I  right  glad. 
Since  they  are  proved,  hereafter  in  esteem  shall  they  be  had," 

In  honesty  he  said  it,  but  a  jest  the  thing  they  thought. 

The  prey  unto  Valencia  they  gathered  and  they  brought. 
My  lord  the  Cid  was  merry  and  his  vassals  with  him  there. 
Six  hundred  marks  of  silver  w(^re  allotted  to  his  share. 

The  sons-in-law  of  my  lord  Cid,  when  they  had  ta'en  away 
Their  war-prize,  when  the  booty  safe  in  their  hand  had  they, 
Took  care  that  no  decrease  thereof  should  in  their  time  be  made. 
In  the  city  of  Valencia  they  were  splendidly  arrayed. 
Feeding  well,  and  wearing  noble  cloaks  and  gallant  capes  of  fur. 
The  Cid  and  all  his  henchmen  exceeding  glad  they  were. 


88  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

CXX  'Twas  a  great  day  in  the  palace  of  the  Cid  Campeador, 
When  he  had  slain  King  Búcar  and  they  won  the  field  of  war. 
He  raised  his  hand,  he  plucked  his  beard : 

' '  To  Christ  now  glory  be. 
Who  is  the  Lord  of  all  the  Earth,  for  mj^  desire  I  see. 
That  with  me  in  the  battle  my  two  sons  should  front  the  foe. 
Of  them  most  noble  tidings  to  Carrion  shall  go : 
How  they  are  greatly  honored,  and  what  renoAvn  they  gain. ' ' 

CXXI     It  was  a  mighty  booty  that  the  Cid  his  host  had  ta'en. 
Part  is  their  own.    In  safety  they  kept  the  rest  aside. 
My  lord  the  Cid  gave  orders  who  was  born  in  a  good  tide, 
That  to  all  men  of  that  conquest  his  true  share  thej^  should  allot, 
And  that  the  fifth  of  my  lord  Cid  should  nowise  be  forgot. 
And  all  men  did  according,  being  prudent  one  and  all. 
For  his  fifth,  six  hundred  horses  to  my  lord  Cid  did  fall, 
And  there  were  many  camels  and,  moreover,  mules  as  well. 
Of  them  there  were  so  many,  that  their  number  none  might  tell. 

CXXII     All  of  this  prey  was  captured  by  the  great  Campeador : 

'  *  Now  unto  God  be  glory  who  is  Lord  the  whole  world  o  'er. 

Before  I  was  in  poverty  who  have  grown  rich  and  great. 

For  now  I  have  possessions,  gold,  honor,  and  estate ; 

And  the  two  Heirs  of  Carrion  my  sons-in-law  are  they. 

And  since  it  is  God's  pleasure  I  win  in  every  fray; 

And  the  Moors  and  the  Christians  they  have  great  dread  of  me. 

And  over  in  Morocco,  where  many  mosques  there  be, 

There  all  men  are  in  terror  lest  upon  them  I  descend 

On  some  fine  night.     That  venture  in  no  waj''  I  intend — 

I  shall  not  go  to  seek  them.    In  Valencia  I  sliall  stay. 

By  God's  aid,  to  me  their  tril)nte  they  shall  render  up  and  pay. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  89 

To  me  or  unto  whom  I  will,  they  shall  pay  the  money  down." 

Very  great  was  the  rejoicing  in  V^alencia  the  town 
That  rose  in  all  the  levies  of  the  Cid  Campeador, 
That  God's  will  had  vouchsafed  them  to  triumph  in  the  war. 
Likewise  of  both  his  sons-in-law  excelling  was  the  mirth. 
For  each  of  them  won  booty  five  thousand  marks  in  worth. 
Themselves  they  deem   right  wealthy,  those   Heirs   of   Carrion 
And  they  with  all  the  others  to  the  palace  came  again.        [twain. 
"With  my  lord  the  Cid  the  Bishop  don  Jerome  standeth  here. 
And  the  good  Alvar  Fañez,  the  fighting  cavalier. 
Of  the  Campeador  his  household  are  many  others  by. 
When  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  entered,  they  were  given  greeting 
By  Minaya  for  the  sake  of  my  lord  Cid  Campeador:         [high. 
* '  Come,  brothers,  by  your  presence  now  are  we  honored  more. ' ' 
When  they  were  come  the  Campeador  was  merry  of  his  cheer: 
"Lo!  now  behold,  my  sons-in-law,  my  faithful  wife  and  dear, 
With  Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira  that  are  my  daughters  twain, 
Now  nobly  may  they  serve  you  and  nobly  entertain. 
Now  glory  to  Saint  Mary,  IMother  of  our  Lord!    God's  name! 
You  are  like  from  these  your  marriages  to  win  abundant  fame. 
Unto  the  land  of  Carrion  fair  tidings  shall  be  sped. ' ' 


CXXIII     Out  spake  the  Heir  Ferrando  when  all  the  word  wa.s 

* '  Glory  to  the  Creator,  and,  noble  Cid,  to  thee.  [said  : 

We  have  so  many  riches  that  numberless  they  be. 

Through  you  we  have  much  honor,  and  we  have  fought  for  you ; 

We  conquered  the  Moriscos  in  the  battle,  and  Ve  slew 

King  Biicar,  proven  traitor,  so  pray  you  have  a  care 

Now  for  some  other  matter;  well  marcheth  our  affair." 

My  lord  the  Cid  his  henchmen  spake  smiling  round  about 
Of  whoso  fought  most  fiercely  or  best  pursued  tiie  rout. 


90  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

But  Diego  and  Ferrando  mid  such  men  they  did  not  find. 

And  now  in  all  the  japing  the  henchmen  had  designed, 

Both  day  and  night  together  they  mocked  sore  the  Heirs  again. 

A  very  evil  counsel  together  took  the  twain. 

Verilj'  they  are  brothers,  forthwith  apart  they  turn 

In  the  thing  that  they  have  spoken,  let  us  have  no  concern. 

"Let  us  return  to  Carrion.    Here  overlong  we  wait. 
The  riches  we  have  gathered  are  excellent  and  great. 
We  cannot  hope  to  spend  them  in  the  mountance  of  our  lives. 


CXXIV    "Now  of  the  Cid  the  Campeador  let  us  demand  our 
Let  us  say  that  we  will  bear  them  to  the  lands  of  Carrion,    [wives. 
The  place  where  they  are  heiresses  shall  unto  them  be  shown. 
We  shall  take  them  from  Valencia,  from  the   Campeador  his 
And  then  upon  the  journey  we  shall  work  our  will  on  each,  [reach. 
Ere  the  matter  of  the  lion  for  a  sore  reproach  and  scorn 
They  turn  to  our  discomfort  who  are  Heirs  of  Carrion  born. 
We  shall  bear  with  us  of  treasure  nigh  priceless  a  fair  stock. 
Of  the  daughters  of  the  Campeador  we  two  shall  make  our  mock. 
We  shall  be  rich  men  always  who  possess  such  valiant  things. 
And  fit  to  marry  daughters  of  emperors  or  kings, 
Wlio  are  the  Counts  of  Carrion  by  virtue  of  our  birth. 
The  Campeador  his  daughters  we  shall  mock  at  in  our  mirth, 
Ere  the  matter  of  the  lion  they  throw  at  us  in  disdain." 

Wlien  this  they  had  decided  the  two  returned  again. 
Outspake  Ferránd  Golzalvez  for  silence  in  the  Court: 

"Cid  Campeador,  so  may  our  God  abide  thy  strong  support, 
May  it  please  Dame  Xiména,  but  first  seem  good  to  thee. 
And  Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  and  all  men  here  that  be — 
Give  us  our  wives.    By  marriage  are  they  ours  in  very  deed. 
TTnIi)  our  ImikIs  in  Carrion  those  ladies  will  we  lead. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  91 

With  the  dower-lands  to  enfeoff  them  that  we  gave  for  bridal 

right 
Of  the  lands  of  our  possession,  thy  daughters  shall  have  sight, 
And  those  wherein  the  children  to  be  born  to  us  shall  share. ' ' 

The  Cid  my  lord  the  Campeador  scented  no  insult  there : 
"I  shall  give  you  m}'  daughters  and  of  my  wealth  dispone. 
Ye  gave  them  glebe  of  dowry  in  the  lands  of  Carrion, 
Three  thousand  marks  of  dower  shall  to  my  girls  belong. 
I  will  give  mules  and  palfreys  both  excellent  and  strong. 
And  great  steeds  of  battle  swift  and  of  mighty  thew, 
And  cloth  and  silken  garments  with  the  gold  woven  through. 
Colada  and  Tizón  the  swords  I  will  give  to  you  likewise — 
Full  well  ye  know  I  got  them  in  very  gallant  guise. 
My  sons  ye  are,  for  to  you  do  I  give  my  daughters  two. 
My  very  heart's  blood  thither  ye  carry  home  with  you. 
In  León  and  in  Galicia  and  Castile  let  all  men  hear 
How  I  sent  forth  my  sons-in-law  with  such  abundant  gear. 
And  serve  you  well  my  daughters,  your  wedded  wives  that  be. 
An  you  serve  them  well  rich  guerdon  ye  shall  obtain  of  me." 
To  this  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  their  full  a.ssent  made  plain. 
The  daughters  of  the  Campeador  were  given  them  and  ta'en, 
And  they  began  receiving  as  the  Cid's  ordere  went. 

"When  of  all  their  heart's  desire  they  were  at  last  content, 
Then  Carrion's  Heirs  commanded  that  the  packs  be  loaded 

straight, 
Through  Valencia  the  citj^  was  the  press  of  business  great, 
And  all  have  taken  weapons  and  all  men  gallop  strong. 
For  they  must  forth  the  daugliters  of  the  Cid  to  speed  along 
Unto  the  lands  of  Carrion.     To  mount  all  men  prepare. 
Farewell  all  men  are  saying.    But  the  two  sisters  there, 
Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  kneeled  to  the  Cid  Campeador: 
"A  boon,  so  may  God  keep  thee,  0  father,  we  implore. 


92  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Thou  begottest  us.    Our  mother  she  brought  us  forth  in  pain. 

Our  liege-lord  and  our  lady,  here  do  ye  stand  ye  twain. 

Now  to  the  lands  of  Carrion  to  send  us  is  your  will ; 

It  is  our  bounden  duty  thy  commandment  to  fulfil. 

And  so  we  two  together  ask  but  this  boon  of  thee, 

That  in  the  lands  of  Carrion  thy  tidings  still  may  be. ' ' 

My  lord  the  Cid  has  clasped  them,  and  he  has  kissed  the  twain. 

CXXV     This  hath  he  done.     Their  mother  hath  doubled  it 
''Go,  daughters!  the  Creator  of  you  henceforth  have  care,  [again. 
I\Iine  and  your  father 's  blessing  you  still  with  you  shall  bear. 
Go  forth  where  you  are  dowered  in  Carrion  to  dwell. 
I  have,  after  my  thinking,  married  you  passing  well. ' ' 
The  hands  of  their  father  and  their  mother  kissed  the  two. 
Blessing  and  benediction  they  gave  to  them  anew. 

My  lord  Cid  and  the  others  have  fettled  them  to  ride, 
With  armor  and  with  horses  and  caparisons  of  pride. 
From  Valencia  the  splendid  were  the  Heirs  departing  then. 
They  took  leave  of  the  ladies  and  all  their  bands  of  men. 
Through  the  meadow  of  Valencia  forth  under  arms  they  went. 
The  Cid  and  all  his  armies  were  very  well  content. 
He  who  in  good  hour  belted  brand  in  signs  had  seen  it  plain 
That  these  marriages  in  no  way  should  stand  without  a  stain. 
But  since  the  twain  are  married,  he  may  not  repent  him  now. 

CXXVI    "My  nepheiv  Felez  Muñoz,  I  prithee  where  art  thou? 
Thou  art  my  daughters'  cousin  in  thy  soul  and  in  thine  heart. 
"With  them  even  unto  Carrion  I  command  thee  to  depart. 
Thou  shalt  see  what  lands  for  dower  to  my  girls  are  given  o'er, 
And  shalt  come  again  with  tidings  unto  the  Campeador." 

Quotii  Felez  Muñoz:  "Heart  and  soul  that  duty  pleases  me." 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  93 

Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  before  the  Cid  came  he : 

"Back  to  the  town  of  Valencia,  Oh  Cid,  now  let  us  go; 

For  if  our  God  and  Father  the  Creator's  will  be  so, 

To  Carrion's  lands  thy  daughters  to  visit  we  shall  wend. 

Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  to  God  do  we  commend. 

Such  things  may  you  accomplish  as  will  make  us  glad  and  fain." 
The  sons-in-law  gave  answer:  "Now  that  may  God  ordain." 
They  lamented  much  at  parting.     Daughters  and  sire  wept 

So  also  wept  the  cavaliers  of  the  Cid  Campeador.  [sore, 

"Thou,  cousin,  Felez  Muñoz,  now  hark  to  this  aright. 

Thou  shalt  go  by  Molina,  and  there  shalt  lie  one  night, 

And  greet  fair  the  Morisco  Avengalvón  my  friend ; 

That  he  may  most  fair  reception  to  my  sons-in-law  extend. 

Tell  him  1  send  my  daughters  to  the  lands  of  Carrion, 

In  all  their  needs  his  courtesy  as  beseemeth  shall  be  shown. 

Let  him  ward  them  to  Medina  for  the  love  he  beareth  me. 

For  all  that  he  doth  for  them  I  will  give  him  a  rich  fee. ' ' 
They  parted  then,  as  when  the  nail  out  of  the  flesh  is  torn. 
He  turned  back  to  Valencia  who  in  happy  hour  was  born. 

And  now  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  have  fettled  them  to  fare. 

Saint  Mary  of  Alvarrazin,  their  halting-place  was  there. 

From  thence  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  plied  furiously  the  spur. 

Lo !  in  Molina  with  the  moor  Avengalvón  they  were. 

The  Morisco  when  he  heard  it  in  his  heart  was  well  content. 

And  forth  with  great  rejoicings  to  welcome  them  he  went. 

Ah,  God !  how  well  he  served  them  in  whate'er  their  joy  might  be ! 

The  next  day  in  the  morning  to  horse  with  thorn  got  he. 

He  bade  two  hundred  horsemen  for  escort  forth  to  ride. 

They  crossed  the  mountains  of  Luzon  (so  are  they  signified), 

And  the  Vale  of  Arbujuclo;  to  the  Jalón  they  came. 

The  place  where  they  found  lodging,  Ansaréra  is  its  name. 

Unto  the  daughters  of  the  Cid,  the  Moor  fair  presents  gave. 


94  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

And  to  either  Heir  of  Carrion  beside  a  charger  brave. 

For  the  love  he  bore  the  Campeador,  all  this  for  them  he  wrought. 

They  looked  npon  the  riches  that  the  Moor  with  him  had 

brought, 
And  then  together  treason  did  the  brothers  twain  concert. 

"Since  the  daughters  of  the   Campeador  we  shortly  shall 
If  but  we  might  do  unto  death  Avengalvón  the  Moor,        [desert, 
The  treasure  he  possesses  for  ourselves  we  should  secure. 
Safe  as  our  wealth  in  Carrion  those  goods  we  will  maintain. 
And  ne'er  will  the  Cid  Campeador  avenge  on  us  the  stain." 

While  they  of  Carrion  this  shame  complotted  each  with  each. 
In  the  midst  a  Moor  o'erheard  them,  that  could  of  Latin  speech. 
He  kept  no  secret.    With  it  to  Avengalvón  he  ran : 

' '  Thou  art  my  lord.    Be  wary  of  these  persons,  Castellan. 
I  heard  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  that  plotted  death  for  thee." 

CXXVII     This  same  Avengalvón  the  Moor,  a  gallant  man  was 
He  got  straightway  on  horseback  with  servitors  ten  score.        [he. 
He  brandished  high  his  weapons,  he  came  the  Heirs  before. 
And  the  two  Heirs  with  what  he  said  but  little  pleased  they  are : 
* '  If  for  his  sake  I  f orebore  not,  my  lord  Cid  of  Bivár, 
I  would  do  such  deeds  upon  you  as  through  all  the  world  should 

ring, 
And  then  to  the  true  Campeador  his  daughters  would  I  bring. 
And  unto  Carrion  never  should  you  enter  from  that  day. 

CXXVIII     What  I  have  done  against  you,  ho !  Heirs  of  Carrion, 
For  without  guile  I  served  you,  and  lo,  my  death  ye  plot,     [say. 
For  wicked  men  and  traitors  I  will  leave  you  on  the  spot. 
Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira  with  j^our  good  leave  I  go ; 
For  of  these  men  of  Carrion  I  rate  the  fame  but  low. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  95 

God  will  it  and  command  it,  who  is  Lord  of  all  the  Earth. 
That  the  Campeador  hereafter  of  this  mateh  have  joy  and  mirth." 

That  thing  the  Moor  has  told  them,  and  back  he  turned  him 
When  he  crossed  over  the  Jalón,  weapon  he  waved  in  air.  [there. 
He  returned  unto  Molina  like  a  man  of  prudent  heart. 

And  now  from  Ansaréra  did  Carrion's  Heirs  depart; 
And  they  began  thereafter  to  travel  day  and  night. 
And  they  left  Atiénza  on  the  left,  a  craggy  height. 
The  forest  of  Miédes,  now  have  they  overpassed. 
And  on  through  Montes  Claros  they  pricked  forward  spurring 
And  they  passed  Griza  on  the  left  that  Álamos  did  found,    [fast. 
There  lie  the  caves  where  Elpha  he  imprisoiied  underground. 
And  they  left  San  Estévan,  on  their  right  that  lay  afar. 
Within  the  woods  of  Corpes,  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  are. 
And  high  the  hills  are  wooded,  to  the  clouds  the  branches  sweep. 
And  savage  are  the  creatures  that  roundabout  them  creep; 
And  there  upon  a  bower  with  a  clear  spring  they  light 
And  there  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  bade  that  their  tent  be  pight. 
There  with  their  men  about  them,  that  night  they  lay  at  rest. 
With  their  wives  clasped  to  their  bosom  their  affection  they 

protest, 
But  ill  the  twain  fulfilled  it,  when  the  dawn  came  up  the  East. 
They  bade  put  goods  a  plenty  on  the  back  of  every  beast. 
Where  they  at  night  found  lodging,  now  have  they  stnick  the 
The  people  of  their  household  far  on  before  them  went.         [tent. 
Of  the  two  Heirs  of  Carrion  so  the  commandment  ran, 
That  none  behind  should  linger,  a  woman  or  a  man. 
But  Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira  their  wives  shall  tarry  still. 
With  whom  it  is  their  pleasure  to  dally  to  their  fill. 

The  others  have  departed.     They  four  are  h-ft  alone. 
Great  evil  had  been  plotted  bj-  the  Heirs  of  Carrion. 
"Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  ye  may  take  this  for  true: 


96  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Here  in  the  desert  wildwood  shall  a  mock  be  made  of  you. 
Today  is  our  departure,  we  will  leave  you  here  behind. 
And  in  the  lands  of  Carrion  no  portion  shall  you  find. 
Let  them  hasten  with  these  tidings  to  the  Cid  Campeador. 
Thus,  the  matter  of  the  lion,  we  avenge  ourselves  therefor." 

Their  furs  and  their  mantles,   from  the  ladies  they  have 

whipped. 
In  their  shifts  and  their  tunics  they  left  the  ladies  stripped. 
With  spur  on  heel  before  them  those  wicked  traitors  stand, 
And  saddle-girths  both  stout  and  strong  they  have  taken  in  the 

hand. 
When  the  ladies  had  beheld  it,  then  out  spake  Sol  the  dame: 
"Don  Diego,  don  Ferrando,  we  beseech  you  in  God's  name. 
You  have  two  swords  about  you,  that  for  strength  and  edge  are 
And  one  they  call  Colada,  the  other  is  Tizón.  [known, 

Strike  off  our  heads  together,  and  martyrs  we  shall  die. 
The  Moriscos  and  the  Christians  against  this  deed  shall  cry. 
It  stands  not  with  our  deserving  that  we  should  suffer  thus. 
So  evil  an  example,  then  do  not  make  of  us. 
Unto  our  own  abasement,  if  you  scourge  us,  you  consent. 
That  men  will  bring  against  you  in  parle  and  parliament. ' ' 

Naught  profits  it  the  ladies,  however  hard  they  pray. 
And  now  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  upon  them  'gan  to  lay. 
With  the  buckled  girths  they  scourged  them  in  fashion  unbeseen, 
And  exceeding  was  their  anguish  from  the  sharp  spurs  and  keen. 
They  rent  the  shifts  and  wounded  the  bodies  of  the  two, 
And  forth  upon  the  tunics  the  clear  blood  trickled  through. 
In  their  very  hearts  the  ladies  have  felt  that  agony. 
What  a  fair  fortune  were  it,  if  God's  will  it  might  be, 
Had  tlien  appeared  before  them  the  Cid  the  Campeador, 

Powerless  were  the  ladies,  and  the  brothers  scourged  them 

sore. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  97 

Their  shifts  and  their  tunics  throughout  the  blood  did  stain. 
Of  scourging  the  two  ladies  wearied  the  brothers  twain, 
Which  man  should  smite  most  fiercely  they  had  vied  each  with 
Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira  had  no  longer  power  of  speech,  [each. 
Within  the  wood  of  Corpes  for  dead  they  left  the  pair. 

CXXIX     Their  cloaks  and  furs  of  ermine  along  with  them  they 

bare, 
In  their  shifts  and  tunics,  fainting,  they  left  them  there  behind, 
A  prey  to  every  wild-fowl  and  beast  of  savage  kind. 
Know  you,  for  dead,  not  living,  they  left  them  in  such  cheer. 
Good  hap  it  were  if  now  the  Cid,  Koy  Diaz,  should  appear. 

CXXX     The  Heirs  of  Carrion  for  dead  have  left  them  thus 

arrayed. 
For  the  one  dame  to  the  other,  could  give  no  sort  of  aid. 
They  sang  each  other's  praises  as  they  journeyed  through  the 

wood: 
' '  For  the  question  of  our  marriage  we  have  made  our  vengeance 
Unbesought,  to  be  our  lemans  we  should  not  take  that  pair,  [good. 
Because  as  wedded  consorts  for  our  arms  unfit  they  were. 
For  the  insult  of  the  lion  vengeance  shall  thus  be  ta'en." 

CXXXI     They  sang  each  other's  praises,  the  Heirs  of  Carrion 

But  now  of  Felez  Muñoz  will  I  tell  the  tale  once  more,      [twain. 

Even  he  that  was  nephew  to  the  Cid  Campeador, 

They  had  bidden  him  ride  onward,  but  he  was  not  well  content. 

And  his  heart  smote  within  him  as  along  the  road  he  went. 

Straightway  from  all  tlie  others  a  space  did  he  witlidraw. 

There  Felez  Muñoz  entered  into  a  thick-grown  sliaw, 

'Till  the  coming  of  his  cousins  should  be  plain  to  be  perceived. 


98  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Or  what  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  as  at  that  time  achieved. 
And  he  beheld  them  coming,  and  heard  them  say  their  say, 
But  they  did  not  espy  him,  nor  thought  of  him  had  they. 
Be  it  known  death  he  had  not  scaped,  had  they  on  him  laid  eye. 
And  the  two  Heirs  rode  onward,  pricking  fast  the  spur  they  ply. 
On  their  trail  Felez  Muñoz  has  turned  him  back  again. 
He  came  upon  his  cousins.    In  a  swoon  lay  the  twain. 
And  crying  ' '  Oh  my  cousins ! ' '  straightway  did  he  alight. 
By  the  rein  the  horse  he  tethered,  and  ran  to  them  forthright. 

"Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  cousins  of  mine  that  be, 
The  two  Heirs  of  Carrion  have  borne  them  dastardly. 
Please  God  that  for  this  dealing  they  may  get  a  shameful  gain. ' ' 
And  straightway  he  bestirred  him  to  life  to  bring  the  twain. 
Deep  was  their  swoon.    Of  utterance  all  power  they  had  forlorn. 
Of  his  heart  the  very  fabric  thereby  in  twain  was  torn. 
"Oh  my  cousins  Dame  Elvira  and  Dame  Sol,"  he  cried  and 
* '  For  the  love  of  the  Creator,  my  cousins  twain,  awake,     [spake, 
AVhile  yet  the  day  endureth,  ere  falls  the  evening-hour. 
Lest  in  the  wood  our  bodies  the  savage  beast  devour." 

In  Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira  fresh  life  began  to  rise ; 
And  they  looked  on  Felez  Muñoz  when  at  last  they  oped  their 
"For  the  love  of  God  my  cousins,  now  be  of  courage  stout,  [eyes : 
From  the  time  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  shall  miss  me  from  their  rout, 
With  utmost  speed  tliereafter  will  they  hunt  me  low  and  high. 
And  if  God  will  not  help  us,  in  this  place  we  three  must  die. ' ' 
To  him  out  spoke  the  Lady  Sol  in  bitter  agony : 
"If  the  Compeador,  our  father,  deserveth  well  of  thee. 
My  cousin  give  us  water,  so  may  God  help  thee  too. ' ' 
A  hat  had  Felez  Muñoz,  from  Valencia,  fine  and  new. 
Therein  he  caught  the  water,  and  to  his  cousins  bore. 
To  drink  their  fill  he  gave  them,  for  they  were  stricken  sore. 
Till  they  rose  up,  most  earnestly  he  begged  them  and  implored. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  99 

He  comforts  them  and  heartens  them  until  they  are  restored. 
He  took  the  two  and  quickl}'-  set  them  a-horse  again. 
He  wrapped  them  in  his  mantle.    He  took  the  charger's  rein 
And  sped  them  on,  and  thorough  Corpes  Wood  they  took  their 
They  issued  from  the  forest  between  the  night  and  day.        [way. 
The  waters  of  Duero  they  at  the  last  attain. 
At  Dame  Urraca 's  tower  he  left  behind  the  twain, 
And  then  unto  Saint  Stephen's  did  Felez  Muñoz  fare. 
He  found  Diego  Tellez,  Alvar  Fañez'  vassal,  tliere. 
When  he  had  heard  those  tidings  on  his  heart  great  sorrow  fell. 
And  he  took  beasts  of  burden  and  garments  that  excel. 
Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira  to  welcome  did  he  go. 
He  lodged  them  in  Saint  Stephen's.     Great  honor  did  he  show 
Those  ladies.     In  Saint  Stephen's  very  gentle  are  the  men. 
When  they  had  heard  the  tidings  their  hearts  were  sorry  then. 
To  the  Cid's  daugliters  tribute  of  plenteous  fare  they  yield. 
In  that  place  the  ladies  tarried,  till  the  time  when  they  were 

healed. 

Loud  they  sang  each  other's  praises  those  Heirs  of  Carrion, 
And  of  their  deeds  the  tidings  through  all  these  lands  were  known. 
Of  the  good  King  don  Alfonso  the  heart  for  grief  was  torn. 
To  Valencia  the  city  now  are  the  tidings  borne. 
To  my  lord  Cid  the  Campeador  that  message  when  they  brought, 
Thereon  for  a  full  hour's  space,  he  pondered  and  he  thought. 
His  hand  he  has  uplifted  and  gripped  his  beard  amain : 
"Now  unto  Christ  be  gloiy  who  o'er  all  the  earth  doth  reign. 
Since  thus  sought  they  of  Carrion  to  keep  mine  honor  whole. 
Now  by  this  beard  that  never  was  plucked  by  living  soul. 
Thereby  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  no  pleasure  shall  they  gain. 
As  for  the  dames  my  daughters,  I  shall  marry  well  the  twain." 

The  Cid  and  all  his  courtiers  were  sorry  grievously. 
Heart  and  soul  Alvar  Fañez  a  sad  man  was  he. 


100  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Minaya  with  Per  Vermudóz  straightway  the  steed  bestrode, 
And  good  Martin  Antolincz  in  Burgos  that  abode, 
With  ten  score  horse  that  to  that  end  the  Cid  set  in  array. 
Most  earnestly  he  charged  them  to  ride  both  night  and  day. 
And  to  the  town  Valencia  his  daughters  twain  to  bring. 
About  their  lord's  commandment  there  was  no  tarrjdng. 
Swiftly  they  got  on  horseback  and  rode  both  day  and  night. 
Into  Gormáz  they  entered,  a  strong  place  of  might. 
In  sooth  one  night  they  lodged  there.    To  Saint  Stephen's  tid- 
ings flew 
That  Minaya  was  come  thither  to  bring  home  his  cousins  two. 
The  dwellers  in  Saint  Stephen's,  as  becomes  the  true  and  brave, 
To  Minaya  and  his  henchmen  a  noble  welcome  gave, 
And  for  tribute  to  Minaya  brought  that  night  of  cheer  good  store. 
He  desired  not  to  accept  it,  but  he  thanked  them  well  therefor ; 
' '  Thanks,  stout  men  of  Saint  Stephen 's,  for  ye  bear  you  wise  and 
For  the  honor  that  ye  did  us,  for  the  thing  that  us  befel,        [well. 
Where  bides  the  Cid  the  Campeador  he  gives  true  thanks  to  you, 
As  I  do  here.    May  God  on  high  give  you  your  payment  due." 
Therewith  they  thanked  him  greatly,  with  him  were  all  con- 
Then  swiftly  to  their  lodging  to  rest  that  night  they  went.    [tent. 
Where  bode  his  kin,  Minaya  to  see  them  went  his  ways. 
Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira  upon  him  ñxed  their  gaze : 
"So  heartily  we  thank  thee,  as  our  eyes  on  God  were  set. 
And  prithee  thank  Him  for  it,  since  we  are  living  yet. 
In  the  days  of  ease  thereafter,  in  Valencia  when  we  dwell, 
The  tale  of  our  affliction,  we  shall  have  strength  to  tell." 


CXXXII     The  dames  and  Alvar  Fañez,  the  tears  flowed  from 

their  eyes, 
Per  Vermudóz  because  of  them  was  sorely  grieved  likewise. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  101 

"Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  be  not  down-hearted  still, 
Since  you  are  well  and  living  and  without  other  ill. 
Ye  have  lost  a  good  marriage,  better  matches  shall  ye  make. 
Oh  may  we  soon  behold  the  day  when  vengeance  we  shall  take!" 
So  all  that  night  they  lay  there  keeping  a  merry  tide. 

The  next  day  in  the  morning  they  fettled  them  to  ride. 
The  people  of  Saint  Stephen's  their  party  escort  bore, 
With  every  sort  of  solace  e  'en  to  Riodamór. 
There  they  took  leave,  and  got  them  in  stead  to  travel  back. 
Minaya  and  the  ladies  rode  forward  on  the  track. 
They  have  passed  Álcoceva.     On  the  right  Gormáz  left  they. 
They  have  come  o'er  the  river  in  the  place  called  Vadorréy, 
And  in  the  town  Berlánga  their  lodging  have  they  made. 
The  next  day  in  the  morning  set  forth  the  cavalcade. 
In  the  place  called  Medina  their  shelter  have  they  sought. 
From  Medina  to  Molina  on  the  next  day  were  they  brought. 
And  there  the  Moor  Avengalvón  was  pleased  in  heart  thereby. 
Forth  with  good  will  he  issued  to  give  them  welcome  high. 
For  my  lord  Cid's  love  a  supper  he  gave  them  rich  and  great. 
Thence  on  unto  Valencia  they  have  departed  straight. 
When  to  him  who  in  good  hour  was  born  the  news  of  it  was  sent, 
Swiftly  he  got  on  horseback,  and  forth  to  greet  them  went. 
As  he  rode  he  brandished  weapons ;  very  joyful  was  his  face. 
My  lord  the  Cid  came  forward  his  daughters  to  embrace. 
And  after  he  had  kissed  them  he  smiled  upon  the  two: 
"Are  ye  then  come  my  daughters?     'Gainst  ill  God  succor  you. 
This  marriage  I  accepted,  daring  not  say  otherwise. 
May  the  Creator  grant  it,  who  dwelleth  in  the  skies, 
That  you  with  better  husbands  hereafter  I  may  see. 
God !  on  my  sons  of  Carrion  grant  me  avenged  to  be. ' ' 
The  hands  of  their  father  to  kiss,  the  two  bent  down. 
And  under  arms  they  hastened  and  came  into  the  town. 


102  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Their  mother  Dame  Xiména  with  them  good  cheer  she  made. 
And  he  who  in  good  hour  was  born,  he  tarried  not  nor  stayed, 
But  there  unto  his  comrades  so  privily  he  spake ; 
To  King  Alfonso  of  Castile  those  tidings  shall  they  take. 


CXXXIII    ' '  Where  art  thou  Muño  Gustióz,  vassal  of  fair  report  ? 

In  a  good  time  I  cherished  and  reared  thee  in  my  court. 

To  King  Alfonso  in  Castile  these  tidings  do  thou  take. 

His  hands  with  heart  and  spirit  do  thou  kiss  them  for  my  sake — 

I  am  known  for  his  vassal,  he  for  my  lord  is  known — 

At  the  dishonor  done  me  by  the  Heirs  of  Carrion 

Shall  the  good  King  be  troubled  in  his  soul  and  in  his  heart. 

He  gave  to  wed  my  daughters,  therein  I  had  no  part. 

Since  my  girls  they  have  deserted  with  great  dishonor  thus, 

If  they  have  put  an  insult  by  that  action  upon  us, 

The  great  part  and  the  little,  my  lord's  is  all  the  scorn. 

My  possessions,  which  are  mighty,  off  with  them  have  they  borne, 

This  and  the  other  insult  well  may  make  me  ill  content. 

Bring  them  to  parley  with  me  in  assize  or  parliament, 

So  that  I  may  have  justice  on  the  Heirs  of  Carrion, 

For  in  my  heart  the  anguish  exceeding  great  is  grown, ' ' 

Thereupon  Muño  Gustióz  swiftly  the  steed  bestrode. 
To  wait  upon  his  pleasure  two  horsemen  with  him  rode, 
And  with  him  were  esquires  that  of  his  household  were. 
They  departed  from  Valencia  as  fast  as  they  could  spur, 
They  gave  themselves  no  respite  either  by  night  or  noon. 
And  the  King  don  Alfonso  he  found  at  Sahagim. 
Of  Castile  is  he  the  ruler,  of  León  furthermore. 
And  likewise  of  Asturias,  yea,  to  San  Salvador. 
As  far  as  Santiago  for  lord  paramount  is  he  known. 
The  counts  throughout  Galicia  him  for  their  sovereign  own. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  103 

As  soon  as  Muño  Gustiúz  got  down  from  horseback  there, 

Before  the  Saints  he  kneeled  him,  and  to  God  he  made  his  prayer. 

Where  the  court  was  in  the  palace  straightway  his  steps  he  bent. 

The  horsemen  two  that  served  him  as  their  lord  beside  him  went. 

As  soon  as  they  had  entered  amid  the  royal  train 

The  King  saw  them  and  knew  lightly  Muño  Gustióz  again. 

The  King  rose  up  and  nobly  he  w^elcomed  him  and  well. 

Before  the  King  Alfonso  on  bended  knee  he  fell. 

The  King's  feet.  Muño  Gustióz,  that  wight,  has  kissed  withal: 

"A  boon,  King,  thee  the  sovereign  of  kingdoms  broad  they  call. 

The  Campeador,  he  kisses  so  well  thy  feet  and  hands; 

Thou  art  his  lord ;  thy  vassal  as  at  all  times  he  stands. 

To  Carrion's  Heirs  his  daughters  were  given  to  wed  by  thee. 

It  was  a  glorious  marriage  for  it  was  thy  decree. 

The  honor  that  befel  us  is  to  thee  already  known, 
What  flout  was  put  upon  us  by  the  Heirs  of  Carrion. 
Fiercely  they  scourged  the  daughters  of  the  Cid  Campeador. 
Naked,  in  great  dishonor  and  from  the  scourging  sore. 
In  Corpes  Wood  unguarded  they  cast  the  dames  away. 
Unto  the  savage  creatures  and  the  forest-fowl  a  prey. 
And  lo !  now  to  Valencia  his  daughters  are  restored. 
For  this  thy  hand  he  kisses  as  a  vassal  to  his  lord. 
That  thou  bring  them  to  confront  him  in  assize  or  parliament. 
He  holds  himself  dishonored,  but  fouler  art  thou  shent. 
And  King,  sore  should  it  grieve  thee,  and  he  prays,  for  wise  art 

thou. 
That  my  lord  Cid  may  have  justice  on  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  now. ' ' 
The  King  long  while  was  silent,  pondering  thereon  apart: 
"The  truth  will  I  say  to  thee.    It  grieves  me  to  the  heart. 
So  hast  thou,  Muño  Gustióz,  herein  a  true  thing  said, 
For  to  Carrion's  Heirs,  his  daughters  I  gave  indeed  to  wed. 
For  good  I  did  it,  deeming  that  there  his  vantage  lay. 


104  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

But  would  now  that  that  marriage  had  ne'er  been  made  today. 

My  lord  the  Cid  and  I  myself,  sore  grieved  at  heart  are  we. 

I  must  help  him  unto  justice,  so  God  my  savior  be. 

Though  I  would  not  at  this  season,  I  must  do  even  so. 

And  now  through  all  my  Kingdom  forth  shall  mine  heralds  go, 

For  in  Toledo  city  a  court  shall  they  proclaim, 

So  that  counts  may  come  and  nobles  that  be  of  lesser  name. 

The  Heirs  of  Carrion  thither  I  will  summon  furthermore ; 

And  there  shall  they  give  justice  to  my  lord  Cid  Campeador, 

Yet  while  I  can  prevent  it,  he  shall  have  no  cause  to  mourn. 


CXXXIV    ''And  say  unto  the  Campeador,  who  in  good  hour 

was  born, 
That  he  may  with  his  vassals  for  these  seven  weeks  prepare 
To  come  unto  Toledo.    That  term  I  grant  him  fair, 
I  will  hold  these  assizes  since  the  Cid  to  me  is  dear. 
Greet  them  all  for  me  fairly,  let  them  be  of  joyful  cheer. 
For  what  befel,  of  honor  they  yet  shall  have  no  lack," 

His  leave  ta'en.  Muño  Gustióz  to  my  lord  Cid  turned  back. 
Since  he  had  undertaken  that  the  charge  on  him  should  fall, 
Alfonso  the  Castilian  delayed  it  not  at  all. 
To  León  and  Santiago  he  sent  letters  without  fail. 
And  unto  the  Galicians,  and  the  men  of  Portingale. 
Tidings  to  them  in  Carrion  and  in  Castile  they  bring 
Of  a  court  held  in  Toledo  by  the  much  honored  King, 
And  that  there  they  should  be  gathered  when  seven  weeks  should 

end. 
Who  stayed  at  home,  true  vassalage  no  longer  could  pretend. 
And  all  men  so  determined  throughout  his  breadth  of  lands 
Not  to  fail  in  the  fulfilment  of  the  King's  high  commands. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  105 

CXXXV    Now  are  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  troubled  by  the  report 
That  the  King  within  Toledo  was  about  to  hold  his  court. 
They  fear  my  lord  Cid  Campeador  will  have  his  part  therein, 
And  they  took  counsel,  seeing  that  the}-  were  near  of  kin. 
The  King  for  dispensation  to  stay  from  court  they  prayed. 
Said  the  King: 

"I  will  not  do  it,  as  God  shall  stand  mine  aid. 
For  my  lord  Cid  the  Campeador  that  place  shall  come  unto, 
And  you  shall  do  him  justice  for  he  makes  complaint  of  you. 
Who  refuses,  or  denies  it  to  come  unto  mine  assize,   ^ 
Let  him  quit  my  realm..  The  fellow  finds  no  favor  in  mine  eyes." 

And  now  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  saw  that  it  must  be  done 
Since  they  are  very  near  of  kin,  counsel  they  took  thereon. 
Count  Garcia  that  to  ruin  the  Cid  sought  evermore, 
My  lord  the  Cid's  arch-foeman,  share  in  these  matters  bore. 
This  man  has  given  counsel  to  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  twain. 
Time  came:  to  the  assizes  to  hasten  they  were  fain. 
Thither  among  the  foremost  doth  good  King  Alfonso  go, 
With  him  the  Count  don  Henry,  and  Count  don  Remónd  also — 
For  the  sire  of  the  most  noble  the  Emperor  was  he  known. 
There  came  the  Count  don  Fróila  and  the  Count  don  Birbon. 
Out  of  his  realm  came  many  of  wise  hearts  and  leal 
All  the  best  men  were  gathered  of  the  kingdom  of  Castile. 
And  there  with  Crespo  de  Granón,  Count  don  García  came 
And  he  who  ruled  in  Oca — Alvar  Diaz  was  his  name. 
With  Gonzálvo  Ansuórez,  Ansuór  Gonzálvez  stood. 
Know  ye  well  with  them  was  Pero  of  the  Ansu(')rez  blood. 
Diego  and  Ferrando  both  to  the  place  resort, 
And  with  them  a  great  company  that  tliey  had  brought  to  Court. 
Upon  my  lord  Cid  Campeador  'tis  their  intent  to  fall. 

Unto  the  place  they  gather  from  every  side  and  all. 
But  he  who  in  good  hour  was  born,  not  yet  hath  lie  drawn  nigh. 


106  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Because  so  long  he  tarries  is  the  King  displeased  thereby. 
My  lord  the  Cid  the  Campeador  is  come  on  the  fifth  day. 
He  has  sent  Alvar  Fañez  ahead  of  his  array, 
That  he  might  kiss  the  King  his  hands  that  is  his  lord  of  right, 
The  King  might  know  it  surely,  he  would  be  at  hand  that  night. 
Now  when  the  King  had  heard  it,  his  heart  was  glad  indeed. 
With  companies  most  mighty  the  King  leaped  on  the  steed, 
And  him  who  in  good  hour  was  born  he  went  to  welcome  there. 
Came  the  Cid  and  all  his  henchmen  equipped  exceeding  fair. 
Oh !  noble  troops  that  follow  a  captain  of  such  might ! 
When  good  King  don  Alfonso  of  my  lord  the  Cid  got  sight. 
My  lord  the  Cid,  the  Campeador,  cast  himself  on  the  sward. 
Himself  he  thus  could  humble  and  do  honor  to  his  lord. 
When  the  King  saw  he  tarried  not 

"Saint  Isidore  to  speed! 
This  day  so  shalt  thou  never.    Mount,  Cid,  upon  the  steed! 
If  not,  so  ends  my  pleasure.    Let  us  greet  on  either  part 
With  heart  and  soul.    What  grieveth  thee  hath  hurt  me  to  the 

heart. 
God  ordereth  that  by  thee  the  court  this  day  shall  honored  be." 
My  lord  Cid,  the  true  Campeador,  to  this  "Amen"  said  he. 
He  kissed  his  hand  and  fairly  gave  him  greeting  then: 
"To  God  now  thanks  be  given,  that  I  see  thee,  lord,  again. 
To  thee  I  bow,  so  also  to  Count  don  Remónd  I  bow. 
To  Count  Henry  and  to  all  men  that  are  in  presence  now. 
God  save  our  friends  and  foremost,  sire,  may  he  cherish  thee. 
My  wife  the  Dame  Xiména — a  worthy  dame  is  she — 
Kisses  thy  hands.    My  daughters,  the  twain  do  so  as  well. 
That  so  thou  mayst  have  pity  for  the  ill  thing  that  befel. " 
"Verily,  so  God  help  me,"  answered  the  King  thereto. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  107 

CXXXVI     Then  homeward  to  Toledo,  the  King  returned  anew. 

Unfain  to  cross  the  Tagus  was  my  lord  Cid  that  night: 

"A  boon,  King.    The  Creator,  may  he  shield  thee  in  HLs  might! 

Oh  sire,  do  thou  get  ready  to  enter  in  the  town. 

In  San  Servan  my  henchman  and  I  will  lay  us  down, 

For  hither  in  the  night-tide  shall  come  those  bands  of  mine; 

And  I  will  keep  my  vigil  here  by  the  holy  shrine. 

I  will  come  to  town  tomorrow  at  the  breaking  of  the  day, 

And,  ere  I  eat  my  dinner,  to  court  will  take  my  way. ' ' 

To  him  the  King  gave  answer:  "Surely,  I  am  content." 

Then  the  King  don  Alfonso  into  Toledo  went. 
My  lord  the  Cid  R03'  Diaz  lieth  in  San  Servan. 
To  make  candles  and  to  set  them  on  the  shrine,  his  order  ran. 
To  watch  that  sanctuary  was  gladness  to  his  heart. 
As  he  prayed  to  the  Creator  and  spake  to  liim  apart. 
Minaya,  and  as  many  as  were  gathered  of  good  fame 
"Were  in  accord  together  when  at  length  the  morning  came. 

CXXVII     Matins  and  prime  they  sang  there  till  the  dawn  had 

Before  the  sun  had  risen  the  mass  was  o'er  and  done.        [begun. 

With  rich  and  timely  offering  that  chapel  they  endow. 

*' Minaya  Alvar  Fañez — my  strongest  arm  art  thou — 

Thyself  shall  bear  me  company  and  the  Bishop,  don  Jerome 

So  too  this  Muño  Gustióz  and  Per  Vermudóz  sliall  come, 

And  Martin  Antolinez  from  Burgos  true  and  tried 

And  with  Alvar  Salvadorez,  Alvar  Alvarez  beside, 

And  Martin  Muñoz  who  was  born  in  a  sea.son  of  good  grace, 

So  likewise  Felez  Muñoz  a  nephew  of  my  race. 

Mai  Anda  wise  exceeding,  along  with  me  shall  go. 

And  the  good  Galind  Garciaz  of  Aragón  also. 

With  these  knights  a  round  hundred  of  the  good  men  here  ordain. 

Let  all  men  wear  their  tunics  the  harness  to  sustain. 


108  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Let  them  assume  the  hauberks  that  white  as  sunlight  glare, 
And  upon  the  hauberks  ermines  and  mantles  of  the  vair. 
Let  them  lace  tight  their  armour,  let  not  the  arms  be  seen. 
They  shall  bear  beneath  their  mantles  the  swords  both  sweet  and 
To  the  court  in  such  a  fashion  to  enter  am  I  fain,  [keen. 

My  rights  there  to  demand  them  and  to  speak  my  meaning  plain. 
If  there  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  seek  to  dishonor  me, 
No  whit  then  shall  I  fear  them,  though  a  hundred  strong  they 
To  him  all  gave  their  answer :  ' '  Such,  lord,  is  our  desire, ' '    [be. ' ' 
Even  as  he  had  commanded  they  ordered  their  attire. 

He  who  in  happy  hour  was  born  would  brook  no  more  delay. 
Upon  his  legs  the  hosen  of  fair  cloth  he  drew  straightway. 
And  shoes  adorned  most  richly  upon  his  feet  has  done ; 
He  donned  a  shirt  of  linen  fine  as  white  as  is  the  sun ; 
The  sleeves  are  laced,  moreover,  with  gold  and  silver  braid. 
The  cuffs  fit  close  upon  them  for  he  bade  them  so  be  made. 
Thereo'er  a  silken  tunic  most  fairly  wrought  he  drew. 
The  threads  of  gold  shone  brightly  that  were  woven  through  and 
A  red  fur  gown  gold-belted  he  cast  his  tunic  o  'er.  [through. 

That  gown  alway  he  weareth,  my  lord  Cid  Campeador. 
He  hath  of  finest  linen  a  cap  upon  his  hair. 
With  the  gold  wrought,  moreover,  and  fashioned  with  due  care, 
That  the  locks  of  the  good  Campeador  might  not  be  disarrayed. 
And  with  a  cord  his  mighty  beard  my  lord  the  Cid  doth  braid. 
All  this  he  did  desiring  well  his  person  to  dispose. 
O  'er  his  attire  a  mantle  of  mighty  worth  he  throws. 
Thereat  might  all  men  wonder  that  thereabouts  did  stand. 
Then  with  the  chosen  hundred  whereto  he  gave  command 
From  San  Servan  forth  issuing  he  got  to  horse  apace. 
Under  arms  the  Cid  departed  unto  the  judgmont-place. 
Duly  without  the  postern  he  descended  from  his  horse, 
And  prudently  he  entered  the  palace  with  his  force. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  109 

Midmost  he  went ;  his  hundred  girt  him  round  on  eveiy  side. 
When  they  had  seen  him  enter,  who  was  born  in  liappy  tide, 
Then  the  good  King  Alfonso  upon  his  feet  did  rise, 
So  also  Count  don  Henry,  and  Count  don  Rcraónd  likewise. 
And  they  arose,  the  others  of  the  court,  ye  well  may  know. 
To  him  who  in  good  hour  was  born  great  honor  did  they  show. 
One  man  there  was  arose  not — 'twas  Crespo  de  Grañón — 
Nor  any  of  the  party  of  the  Heirs  of  Carrion. 

The  King  has  ta'en  my  lord  Cid's  hand: 

' '  Come  sit  thee.  Campeador, 
On  the  bench  here  beside  me — thy  gift  to  me  of  yore. 
Thou  art  our  better,  though  there  be  umbrage  therefor  that  take. ' ' 
Then  he  who  won  Valencia  for  gi'atitude  he  spake : 
"Sit  like  a  king  and  master  on  thy  bench,  for  it  is  thine; 
In  this  station  will  I  tarry  here  with  these  men  of  mine." 

Of  what  my  lord  Cid  uttered  was  the  King's  heart  glad  and 
Upon  a  bench  well  carven  the  Cid  his  seat  has  ta'en ;  [fain. 

The  hundred  men  that  guard  him  are  seated  round  him  there. 
And  all  men  in  the  Cortes  upon  my  lord  Cid  stare, 
And  the  long  beard  he  weareth  that  is  braided  with  a  cord. 
He  seems  by  his  apparel  to  be  a  splendid  lord. 
For  shame  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  his  gaze  they  could  not  meet. 

The  good  King  don  Alfonso  then  rose  unto  his  feet : 
"Hearken  ye  gentle  companies,  so  God  your  hands  sustain. 
But  two  court  have  I  holden  in  the  space  of  all  my  reign. 
In  Burgos  one,  in  Carrion  the  next  did  I  array; 
The  third  here  in  Toledo  have  I  come  to  hold  today, 
For  the  Cid's  love,  whose  birth-hour  for  a  glad  time  is  known, 
That  so  he  may  have  justice  on  the  Heirs  of  Carrion. 
Let  all  men  know  thoy  did  him  a  bitter  injury. 
The  Counts  Remónd  and  Henry  judges  thereof  shall  be. 
And  all  you  counts,  moreover,  in  the  feud  who  bear  no  part. 


lio  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

In  your  minds  turn  it  over,  for  ye  are  wise  of  heart. 
See  that  ye  render  justice.    All  falseness  I  gainsay. 
On  one  side  and  the  other  let  us  keep  the  peace  this  day. 
Who  breaks  our  peace,  I  swear  it  by  the  Saint  Isidore, 
ShaU  be  banished  from  my  kingdom,  nor  have  my  favor  more. 
His  side  I  will  maintain  it  whose  cause  is  right  and  fair. 
Therefore  let  the  Cid  Campeador  forthwith  his  suit  declare. 
Then  shall  we  hear  what  Carrion's  Heirs  in  answer  shall  depose." 

My  lord  Cid  kissed  the  King  his  hand.     Then  to  his  feet  he 
"My  sovereign  and  my  master  great  thanks  I  give  to  thee    [rose : 
That  thou  this  court  hast  summoned  out  of  pure  love  for  me. 
Against  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  this  matter  I  reclaim. 
They  cast  away  my  daughters.     I  had  thereby  no  shame, 
For  thou  gavest  them  in  marriage.    What  deed  to  do  today 
Thou  know'st  well.     From  Valencia  when  they  took  my  girls 
I  loved  with  heart  and  spirit  the  Heirs  of  Carrion,  [away, 

And  the  two  swords  I  gave  them,  Colada  and  Tizón — 
I  won  them  in  such  manner  as  a  good  knight  became — 
That  they  might  do  you  service  and  do  honor  to  their  fame. 
When  in  the  Wood  of  Corpes  they  left  my  girls  forlorn. 
They  lost  my  love  forever,  for  they  made  of  me  a  scorn.  ^ 
Since  my  sons-in-law  they  are  not,  let  them  give  me  either  sword. ' ' 
"All  of  the  claim  is  righteous,"  so  the  judges  gave  accord. 

Then  said  Count  don  Garcia:  "Of  this  let  us  debate." 
Apart  from  the  assizes  went  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  straight. 
And  all  their  following  with  them  and  the  kindred  of  their  name. 
And  swiftly  they  debated,  and  to  their  resolve  they  came : 
*  *  Now  the  Cid  Campeador  for  us  dotli  a  great  favor  do. 
Since  for  his  girls'  dishonor  for  no  damage  doth  he  sue. 
With  the  King  don  Alfonso,  we  soon  shall  be  at  one.  >^ 
The  swords  then  let  us  give  him,  for  so  the  suit  is  done ; 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  111 

They  will  hold  the  court  no  longer,  when  he  has  the  swordi?  once 
From  lis  no  further  justice  for  the  Cid  Campeador."  [more. 

That  parley  being  over,  to  court  they  get  them  now. 

"Thy  favor.  King  Alfonso,  our  overlord  art  thou. 
And  we  cannot  deny  it,  for  he  gave  us  the  two  brands. 
And  since  that  we  return  them  he  desires  now  and  demands, 
Into  his  hand  to  give  them  in  thy  presence  are  we  fain." 
Then  they  brought  forth  Colada  and  Tizón,  the  falchions  twain, 
Straightway  they  gave  them  over  to  the  King  their  sovereign's 

hands. 
The  whole  court  shone  glorious  when  they  brought  forth  the 
The  pommels  and  the  hilt-bars  are  all  of  massy  gold;        [brands, 
To  the  true  henchmen  of  the  court  'twas  a  marvel  to  behold. 
The  King  my  lord  Cid  summoned,  to  him  the  swords  lie  gave. 
His  sovereign 's  hands  he  kisseth.    He  receiveth  either  glaive. 
To  the  bench  whence  he  had  risen,  he  turned  him  back  again. 
And  in  his  hands  he  held  them,  he  looked  upon  the  twain. 
Changelings  they  could  not  give  him;  he  knew  the  two  aright. 
And  his  heart  lauglicd  within  him,  he  was  filled  with  all  delight. 
"Now  by  my  beard  none  ever  plucked,"  gripping  it  hard  he 

spake, 
"For  Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira  high  vengeance  I  will  take." 

By  name  his  nephew  Pero  he  hath  called  out  before; 
And  stretching  forth  his  hand,  to  him  the  sword  Tizón  gave  o'er. 
"Take  it  nephew.    The  sword's  master  now  is  fairer  of  renown." 
To  good  Martin  Antolinez  the  man  of  Burgos  town. 
Stretching  forth  his  hand  Colada  into  his  care  he  gave ; 

"Thou  Martin  Antolinez,  who  art  a  vassal  brave, 
Take  Colada  that  I  captured  from  a  true  knight  without  fail. 
From  him  of  Barcelona,  from  Kcmónd  Berenguél. 
That  thou  mayst  guard  it  rightly,  therefore  1  give  it  thee, 
I  know  if  aught  befall  thee,  if  occasion  e  'er  should  be, 


112  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Great  fame  and  estimation  with  the  sword  shalt  thou  attain. ' ' 
The  lord  Cid's  hands  he  kissed  them.    He  took  the  sword  again. 

My  lord  the  Cid  the  Campeador  unto  his  feet  rose  he ; 
''Now  thanks  to  the  Creator  and  my  lord  the  King  to  thee. 
"With  the  swords  Colada  and  Tizón  I  am  content  indeed, 
But  I  have  a  farther  issue  'gainst  Carrion  Heirs  to  plead : 
When  with  them  from  Valencia  my  daughters  twain  they  bore, 
Three  thousand  marks  of  silver  and  gold  I  gave  them  o'er. 
When  I  did  this,  the  winning  of  all  their  end  they  saw. 
Let  them  restore  the  treasure.     They  are  not  my  sons-in-law." 

Now  might  you  hearken  Carrion's  Heirs,  what  a  complaint 

made  they. 
To  them  said  the  Count  don  Remónd:  -"Give  answer,  'Yea'  or 

'Nay'!" 
And  then  the  Heirs  of  Carrion,  they  made  their  answer  plain: 
"Therefore  to  the  Cid  Campeador  we  gave  his  swords  again 
That  he  might  demand  naught  further,  for  his  suit  is  closed  there- 
by." 
Then  straightway  the  Count  don  Remónd  unto  them  made  reply : 
' '  This  say  we :  With  the  pleasure  of  the  Sovereign  if  it  stands, 
You  shall  give  satisfaction  in  what  the  Cid  demands." 
The  good  King  said :  ' '  The  measure  with  my  assent  doth  meet. ' ' 
And  now  hath  the  Cid  Campeador  arisen  to  his  feet : 

"Say  of  those  goods  I  gave  you,  will  ye  give  them  me  anew 
Or  render  an  accounting?" 

Then   Carrion's   Heirs  withdrew. 
For  the  greatness  of  that  treasure  they  could  not  as  one  consent. 
And  the  two  Heirs  of  Carrion  the  whole  of  it  had  spent. 
They  returned  with  their  decision,  and  spake  their  pleasure  thus : 
"The  Captor  of  Valencia,  he  presses  sore  on  us. 
Since  lust  for  our  possession  so  on  him  hand  hath  laid, 
From  our  estates  in  Carrion  the  money  shall  be  paid." 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  113 

And  then  outspake  the  judges  since  the  debt  the  Ileirs  avowed : 
"If  it  be  the  Cid's  desire,  it  is  not  disallowed. 
So  we  ordain,  for  such  wise  with  our  pleasure  dotli  it  sort. 
That  ye  repay  it  to  him  in  this  place  before  the  court." 

Out  spake  the  King  Alfonso  when  their  words  were  at  an  end : 
' '  The  inward  of  this  lawing  we  wholly  comprehend, 
That  justice  is  demanded  by  the  Cid  Campeador. 
Now  of  those  marks  three  thousand,  I  have  in  hand  tenseore ; 
They  were  given  to  me  duly  by  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  twain. 
Since  so  sore  are  they  impoverished,  I  will  give  it  them  again. 
To  the  Cid  born  in  fair  hour,  let  them  pay  the  money  back. 
To  pay  their  debt,  that  money  I  will  not  let  tlieni  lack. ' ' 

As  for  Ferránd  Gonzálvez,  what  he  said  ye  now  shall  hear : 
"We  have  in  our  possession  no  minted  goods  and  gear." 

To  him  then  the  Count  don  Remónd  answered  to  this  intent : 
"All  of  the  gold  and  silver,  the  twain  of  you  have  spent. 
Before  the  King  Alfonso,  our  verdict  we  proclaim. 
That  ye  pay  in  goods.    The  Campeador,  let  him  accept  the  same." 

Now  saw  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  what  need  must  be  their  course. 
Ye  might  have  seen  led  thither  full  many  a  swift  horse, 
Many  fat  mules,  moreover,  and  many  a  well-paced  jade. 
And  everj^  sort  of  armour,  and  many  a  fine  blade. 
My  lord  the  Cid  accepted  even  as  the  court  assessed. 
Beyond  the  tenseore  marks  whereof  Alfonso  stood  possessed. 
To  him  who  in  good  hour  was  born  the  Heirs  have  paid  the  price. 
On  others'  goods  they  borrow,  for  their  own  will  not  suffice. 
Know  vieW  for  fools  men  took  them,  from  that  suit  when  scaped 

the  twain. 

CXXXVIII  All  of  those  great  possessions  my  lord  the  Cid  has 
His  men  keep  all  that  treasure,  and  they  will  ward  it  well,  [ta'en. 
Wlien  this  was  done,  a-pondering  on  other  things  they  fell : 


114  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

"Lord  King,  for  love  of  charity,  a  further  favor  yet, 
Of  my  complaints  the  chiefest,  I  cannot  now  forget. 
Let  the  whole  court  now  hear  me,  and  have  pity  on  my  woe : 
As  for  these  Heirs  of  Carrion,  the  which  have  shamed  me  so, 
I  brook  not  that  unchallenged  they  may  go  hence  away. 


CXXXIX     ' '  In  what  thing  I  affronted  you,  ye  Heirs  of  Carrion 

In  what  fashion  whatsoever,  in  earnest  or  in  sport.  [say, 

Let  me  make  amends  according  to  the  judgment  of  the  court. 

Why  did  ye  tear  in  tatters  the  fabric  of  my  heart?   '^ 

With  great  honor  from  Valencia  what  time  ye  did  depart, 

I  gave  to  you  my  daughters,  and  besides  great  wealth  and  gear. 

Now  say,  ye  dogs  and  traitors,  since  ye  did  not  hold  them  dear. 

Why  took  ye  from  Valencia  what  was  their  dower  of  right? 

And  wherefore  with  the  girth  and  spur  the  ladies  did  ye  smite  ? 

Alone  in  Corpes  Forest  ye  cast  the  twain  away. 

Unto  the  savage  creatures  and  the  wood-fowl  for  a  prey. 

In  all  ye  did  unto  them,  like  vile  men  did  ye  show. 

Let  the  Court  judge ;  satisfaction  shall  I  get  therefor  or  no  ? " 


CXL    And  lo!    Count  don  Garcia  has  risen  up  amain: 

' '  Let  us  now  have  thy  favor,  best  of  all  kings  in  Spain. 

Of  the  courts  proclaimed  is  now  the  Cid  well  versed  in  the  affairs. 

Since  he  let  it  wax  so  mighty,  'tis  a  long  beard  he  wears. 

Some  he  affrights  and  others  are  for  fear  in  sorry  case. 

But  as  for  them  of  Carrion,  theirs  is  a  lofty  race, 

His  daughters  e'en  as  lemans  to  love  becomes  them  not. 

Wlio  to  them  for  lawful  consorts  those  ladies  would  allot  ?       f. 

When  they  cast  them  off,  then  did  they  as  might  the  right  befit. 

All  things  he  says  soever  we  value  not  a  whit. ' ' 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  115 

And  thereupon  the  Campeador  his  beard  in  hand  gripped  he : 
''To  God  who  ruleth  Heaven  and  the  whole  Earth  glory  be. 
Since  tenderl}^  I  kept  it,  is  my  beard  grown  so  long. 
Count,  say  what  is  the  reason,  that  thou  dost  my  beard  this  wrong, 
That  since  its  first  growth  ever  has  been  so  gently  reared. 
No  man  born  of  woman  has  ever  plucked  that  beard.  .- 
Nor  has  son  of  Moor  or  Christian  e'er  torn  that  beard  of  mine, 
As  once  in  Cabra  Castle  I  did,  oh  Count,  to  thine. 
When  at  one  time  on  Cabra  and  thy  beard  my  hand  I  set. 
Not  a  lad  but  for  the  plucking  his  pinch  thereof  could  get. 
Nor  is  it  yet  grown  even  what  portion  I  did  tear. 
Here  hidden  in  my  wallet  those  tokens  yet  I  bear." 


CXLI     Now  had  Ferránd  Gonzálvez  risen  to  his  feet  that  tide. 
What  thing  ye  now  shall  hearken  that  there  so  loud  he  cried : 

* '  Cid,  do  thou  now  give  over  the  suit  which  thou  hast  made, 
For  the  whole  of  thy  possession  into  thine  hands  is  paid. 
Look  that  thou  make  not  greater  the  feud  twixt  us  and  thee. 
For  the  two  Counts  of  Carrion  by  lineage  are  we. 
Of  kings'  and  emperors'  daughters  are  we  fit  to  win  the  hands; 
To  wed  the  girls  of  little  chiefs  scarce  with  our  lineage  stands. 
When  thy  daughters  we  abandoned  we  did  but  what  was  right. 
Not  worse  therefore  but  better,  are  we  then  in  our  own  sight." 


CXLII     To  Per  Vermudóz  Roy  Diaz  my  lord  the  Cid  looked 

now : 
"Speak  then,  good  Pero  Mudo,  though  a  silent  man  art  thou. 
The  ladies  are  my  daughters,  thy  cousins  twain  aro  they. 
Into  thy  teeth  they  cast  it,  when  such  a  thing  they  say. 
Thou  shalt  not  do  this  battle,  if  I  the  answer  make. 


116  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

CXLIII  And  thereupon  Per  Vermudóz  began  the  tale  and 
No  words  he  utters  clearly,  for  'tis  a  tongue-halt  man.  [spake. 
Natheless  no  rest  he  gave  them,  be  it  known,  when  he  began: 

"To  thee,  Cid,  now  I  tell  it,  for  such  thy  customs  be, 
That  in  Court,  Pero  Mudo,  ever  thou  callest  me. 
And  verily  thou  knowest  that  I  can  do  no  more. 
As  for  what  I  must  accomplish,  there  shall  be  no  lack  therefore. 

"What  thing  thou  saidest  soever,  Ferrando,  was  a  lie. 
Through  the  Campeador  thy  glory  was  risen  yet  more  high. 
I  can  relate  unto  thee  thine  every  trick  and  sleight. 
Minds 't  thou,  near  high  Valencia,  what  time  we  fought  the  fight  ? 
Thou  didst  of  the  true  Campeador  for  the  first  onslaught  pray. 
And  there  a  Moor  thou  sawest,  whom  thou  wentest  forth  to  slay. 
Or  e'er  thou  camest  to  him,  before  him  didst  thou  flee. 
If  aid  I  had  not  borne  thee,  he  had  roughly  handled  thee. 
But  I  rushed  on  beyond  thee,  and  with  the  Moor  did  close. 
And  I  made  that  Moor  flee  backward  at  the  foremost  of  my  blows. 
To  thee  I  gave  his  charger,  and  kept  the  thing  concealed. 
Until  this  day  that  cowardice  I  never  have  revealed. 
Before  the  Cid  and  all  men  thine  own  praises  didst  thou  sing, 
How  thou  slewest  the  Morisco,  and  didst  a  gallant  thing. 
And  they  believed  it  of  thee,  knowing  not  the  truth  at  all. 
Of  thy  person  art  thou  handsome,  but  thy  courage  it  is  small, 
\ Tongue  without  hands,  the  manhood  to  speak  where  gottest  thou? 

CXLIV  ' '  Do  thou  say  on,  Ferrando.  That  my  words  are  truth 
That  matter  of  the  lion  in  Valencia  dost  thou  keep  [avow : 

In  mind  still,  when  he  burst  his  bonds  while  the  Cid  lay  asleep  ? 
Ferrando,  then  what  didst  thou,  when  th}^  terror  overbore  ? 
Thou  didst  thrust  thyself  behind  the  bench  of  the  Cid  Campeador. 
Thou  didst  hide.  Ferrando,  wherefore  cheap  today  thy  worth  is 
But  we  to  guard  our  Master  his  pallet  gathered  round,      [found, 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  117 

/ 
Till  he  who  won  Valencia  out  of  his  sleep  did  wake. 
He  rose  up  from  the  pallet,  at  the  lion  did  he  make. 
His  head  the  lion  bended,  for  the  Cid  the  beast  did  wait. 
By  the  neck  he  let  himself  be  ta'en.     In  the  cage  he  tlirust  him 

straight. 
When  came  once  more  the  Campeador,  there  he  saw  his  vassals 
He  asked  about  his  sons-in-law,  but  neither  found  at  hand,  [stand. 
For  a  wicked  man  and  traitor  thy  person  I  arraign. 
In  fight  before  Alfonso  that  same  I  will  maintain, 
For  Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  for  the  Cid's  daughters'  sake. 
Thou  didst  cast  away  the  ladies  thine  honor  cheap  to  make.  ^ 
Ye  are  men  to  all  appearance,  tender  women  are  those  two; 
Yet  in  every  way  whatever  they  are  worthier  than  you. 
If,  when  we  join  the  combat,  God  shall  like  well  in  his  heart, 
Thyself  shalt  thou  confess  it,  like  a  traitor  as  thou  art. 
Whatever  I  have  uttered  shall  then  be  known  for  true." 
And  thereupon  was  ending  of  speech  between  these  two. 

CXLV     And  Didago  Gonzálvez  what  he  uttered  ye  shall  hear: 
"We  twain  are  Counts  by  lineage  of  blood  of  the  most  clear. 
Such  marriages  in  no  way  we  twain  would  undertake, 
With  my  lord  Cid  don  Rodrigo  alliance  for  to  make. 
We  do  not  yet  repent  us  that  we  put  his  daughters  by : 
So  long  as  life  endureth,  may  they  sigh  many  a  sigh. 
A  sore  reproach  upon  them  what  we  did  will  still  remain. 
The  same  with  utmost  valor  in  the  fight  will  I  maintain : 
When  we  cast  away  the  women  we  made  our  honor  good. 

CXLVI     Then  Martin  Antolinez  upon  his  feet  he  stood: 
* '  Thou  wretch,  do  thou  keep  silence.    Mouth  that  truth  knoweth 
The  matter  of  the  lion  hast  thou  so  soon  forgot?  [not! 

Out  through  the  door  thou  fleddest  lurking  in  the  court  outside, 


118  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

Behind  the  wine-press  timber  in  that  hour  didst  thou  hide. 

That  mantle  and  that  tunic  were  worn  no  more  by  thee. 

In  fight  I  will  maintain  it.    No  other  can  it  be. 

Since  the  lord  Cid  his  daughters  forth  in  such  plight  ye  threw, 

They  are  in  every  fashion  far  worthier  than  you. 

At  the  ending  of  the  combat  then  thine  own  mouth  shall  avow 

That  lies  are  all  thine  utterance,  and  a  traitor  knave  art  thou." 

CXLVII    Between  those  two  the  parlej^  has  come  unto  an  end. 

Now  did  Ansuór  Gonzálvez  into  the  palace  wend. 

Was  an  ermine  cloak  about  him,  and  his  tunic  trailed  behind. 

His  countenance  was  ruddy,  for  but  lately  had  he  dined. 

In  what  he  had  to  utter  small  discretion  did  he  show : 

CXLVIII  '  *  How  now  ye  noble  gentlemen,  was  ever  such  a  woe  ? 
With  Bivár's  lord  Cid  such  honor  who  would  have  thought  to 
On  the  Ovirna  water  his  millstones  let  him  grind,  [find  ? 

And  take  his  wonted  toll-corn.    Would  any  man  have  thought 
That  with  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  alliances  he  sought?" 

CXLIX     And  then  did  Muño  Gustióz  rise  to  his  feet  forthright : 
' '  Thou  wretch,  do  thou  keep  silent !    Thou  wicked  traitor  wight ! 
Before  to  prayers  thou  goest,  certain  thou  art  to  dine. 
Whoe'er  in  peace  thou  kissest,  sickens  at  that  belch  of  thine. 
Whether  to  friend  or  master  thou  speakest  perjury. 
False  unto  all,  and  falsest  to  the  God  who  fashioned  thee ! 
And  never  in  thy  friendship  will  I  have  any  part, 
And  I  will  make  thee  say  it  that  what  I  say  thou  art." 

Said  now  the  King  Alfonso:  "Let  the  suit  quiet  lie. 
Who  have  challenged  shall  do  battle,  so  help  me  the  Most  High." 

Soon  as  the  suit  was  finished  to  the  court  two  horsemen  came, 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  119 

And  Inigo  Ximénez  and  Ojárra  men  them  name; 

For  Navarra 's  Heir-apparent,  proxy-suitor  was  the  one, 

The  other  was  the  suitor  for  the  Heir  of  Aragón. 

And  there  the  twain  together  have  kissed  Alfonso's  hand. 

The  Cid  Campeador  his  daughters  in  marriage  they  demand, 

Of  the  realms  Navarre  and  Aragón  the  lady-queens  to  be. 

May  he  send  them  with  his  blessing  and  with  all  courtesy. 

Thereat  the  whole  court  listened,  and  stillness  fell  them  o'er. 

Upon  his  feet  rose  straightway  my  lord  Cid  Campeador: 

"A  boon,  Oh  King  Alfonso,  my  sovran  lord  thou  art. 

For  this  to  the  Creator  very  thankful  is  my  heart. 

Since  both  Navarre  and  Aragón  have  made  request  so  high. 

Thou  didst  give  to  wed  my  daughters  before.     It  was  not  I. 

Here  then  behold  my  daughters,  the  twain  are  in  thine  hand. 

"With  them  I  will  do  nothing,  except  at  thy  command." 

The  King  rose  up.    For  silence  in  the  court  the  word  he  gave : 

"I  beg  it  of  thee.  Campeador,  the  true  Cid  and  the  brave. 

That  hereto  thou  yield  agreement.     I  will  grant  the  thing  this 

And  it  shall  be  consented  in  open  court  straightway,  [day; 

For  so  will  grow  thy  glory  and  thine  honor  and  thy  lands. ' ' 

Now  is  the  Cid  arisen.    He  kissed  Alfonso's  hands: 

"To  whatever  thing  shall  please  thee,  I  give  consent,  my  lord." 

Then  said  the  King :  ' '  God  grant  thee  an  excellent  reward ! 

To  inigo  Ximénez  and  Ojárra,  to  you  two, 

I  yield  my  full  permission  for  this  marriage  unto  you, 

That  Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira,  who  the  Cid's  daughters  are, 

Wed,  one  the  Heir  of  Aragón,  and  the  other  of  Navarre. 

May  he  yield  his  girls  with  blessings  in  an  honorable  way. ' ' 

Then  Inigo  Ximénez  and  Ojárra,  up  rose  tliey. 
And  the  hands  of  Don  Alfonso  in  that  hour  kissed  again. 
The  hands  of  the  Cid  Campeador  tluTeaftcr  kissed  the  twain. 
And  there  their  faith  they  i)lighted,  and  solemn  oaths  tiiey  swore, 


120  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

That  tliey  would  fulfill  entirely  what  they  promised  or  yet  more. 
Because  of  this  were  many  in  the  court  exceeding  glad ; 
But  the  two  Heirs  of  Carrion,  therein  no  joy  they  had. 

Minaya  Alvar  Fañez  upon  his  feet  rose  he : 
"As  from  my  King  and  Master  I  beg  a  fcooirof  thee, 
And  let  it  not  be  grievous  to  the  Cid  Campeador. 
I  have  through  these  assizes  kept  my  peace  heretofore, 
But  now  to  utter  somewhat  for  mine  own  part  fain  am  I." 
Said  the  King :  ' '  Now  all  my  spirit,  it  is  well  pleased  thereby. 
Say  on !    Say  on,  Minaya,  what  to  thy  heart  is  dear. ' ' 

"You  in  the  court,  I  beg  you  to  mj^  word  to  lend  an  ear. 
'Gainst  Carrion's  Heirs  needs  must  I  now  a  charge  most  mighty 
I  gave  to  them  my  cousins  by  Alfonso 's  hand,  the  King,     [bring : 
With  blessings  and  with  honor  thej^  took  them  in  their  care. 
The  Cid  Campeador  he  gave  them  most  rich  possessions  there. 
They  cast  away  those  ladies,  for  all  that  we  were  loth. 
For  wicked  men  and  traitors  I  make  challenge  of  you  both. 
From  the  great  sons  of  Gomez  does  your  lineage  come  down, 
Whence  many  counts  have  issued  of  valor  and  renown, 
But  this  day  all  to  certainly  their  cunning  do  we  learn. 
For  this  to  the  Creator,  now  thanks  do  I  return, 
That  of  Navarre  and  Aragón  the  Heirs  in  marriage  sue 
For  Dame  Sol  and  Elvira  that  are  my  cousins  two. 
Erst  for  true  wives  ye  had  them,  who  now  their  hands  shall  kiss 
And  call  them  dame,  though  sorely  ye  take  the  thing  amiss. 
Praise  to  our  God  in  Heaven  and  our  lord  the  King  therefor. 
So  greatly  grows  the  honor  of  the  Cid  my  Campeador. 
In  every  way  soever  ye  are  even  as  I  say. 
Is  there  any  in  the  presence  to  reply  or  say  me  nay? 
Lo !    I  am  Alvar  Fañez,  against  the  most  of  might ! ' ' 

And  thereupon  did  Gomez  Peláez  stand  upright : 
"Say  of  what  worth,  Minaya,  is  this  ye  speak  so  free? 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  121 

For  here  in  the  assizes  are  men  enough  for  thee. 
"Who  otherwise  would  have  it,  it  would  ruin  him  indeed. 
If  it  be  perchance  God's  pleasure  that  our  quarrel  well  should 

speed, 
Then  well  shalt  thou  see  whether  or  right  or  wrong  ye  were. ' ' 
Said  the  King:  "The  suit  is  over.    No  further  charge  prefer. 
Tomorrow  is  the  combat;  at  the  rising  of  the  sun 
By  the  three  who  challenged  with  thee  in  the  court  it  shall  be 

Thereon  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  have  spoken  presently:  [done." 
"Lord  King,  a  season  grant  us  for  tomorn  it  cannot  be. 
We  have  given  to  the  Campeador  our  arms  and  many  a  steed. 
First  to  our  land  of  Carrion  to  go  we  have  sore  need." 
And  then  the  King  had  spoken  to  the  Campeador  again : 
"Where  thou  shalt  bid,  this  combat,  let  it  be  underta'en." 
"My  lord,  I  will  not  do  it,"  my  lord  the  Cid  said  he, 
"More  than  the  lands  of  Carrion  Valencia  liketh  me." 

To  him  the  King  gave  answer : 

"Yea,  Cid!    Without  a  doubt. 
Give  unto  me  your  cavaliers  all  duh*  armed  about. 
Let  them  go  in  my  keeping.    Their  safety  I  assure 
As  a  lord  to  a  good  vassal ;  I  make  thee  here  secure 
That  they  take  no  harm  from  any  count  or  lesser  baronet. 
Here  now  in  the  assizes,  a  term  for  them  I  set, 
That  in  the  fields  of  Carrion  at  the  end  of  three  weeks'  space 
There  duly  in  my  presence  the  combat  shall  take  place. 
Who  at  the  set  time  comes  not,  his  suit  is  lost  thereby, 
From  that  time  he  is  vanquished;  for  a  traitor  let  him  fly." 
The  two  Heirs  of  CarricSn,  by  that  decree  they  stand. 
And  thereupon  my  lord  the  Cid  has  kissed  the  King  iiis  hand ; 

"To  thy  hand  are  thej^  delivered  my  cavaliers  all  three; 
As  to  my  King  and  Master  I  comnuMid  them  unto  thee. 
They  are  ready  now  their  duty  to  tlie  full  to  undertake. 


122  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

With  honor  to  Valencia  send  them  me  for  God  his  sake." 

*'So  it  be  God's  desire,"  answered  the  King  and  said. 

The  Cid  the  Campeador  did  off  the  helmet  from  his  head, 

Likewise  the  cap  of  linen  as  white  as  is  the  sun. 

He  freed  his  beard,  the  cord  thereof  he  has  forthwith  undone. 

Those  in  the  court  upon  him,  their  full  they  could  not  gaze. 

To  the  Counts  Eemond  and  Henry  forthwith  he  went  his  way. 

And  them  closely  he  embraces  and  doth  heartily  require 

To  take  of  his  possession  all  that  suits  with  their  desire. 

These  twain  and  many  others  who  were  persons  of  good  will 

He  earnestly  requested  to  take  unto  their  fill 

Some  took  his  gifts,  but  others  would  not  accept  a  thing. 

The  two  hundred  marks,  he  gave  them  once  more  unto  the  King. 

"Whatever  was  his  pleasure  he  has  taken  of  the  rest: 

"King,  for  love  of  the  Creator  one  thing  let  me  request. 

Sire,  with  thy  will  I  kiss  thine  hand,  since  so  these  deeds  are  done. 

And  would  fain  unto  Valencia  which  with  great  pain  I  won." 

Then  the  Cid  commanded  to  give  sumpter-beasts  unto  the 
embassadors  of  the  Heirs  of  Navarre  and  Aragón,  and,  moreover, 
to  let  them  have  whatever  else  they  required.*  And  he  sent 
them  forth.  The  King  don  Alfonso  with  all  the  nobles  of  his 
court  got  on  horseback  in  ortier  to  ride  out  with  the  Cid  who 
was  about  to  leave  the  town.  When  they  came  to  Zocodover, 
the  Cid  being  on  his  charger  Baviéca,  the  King  said  to  him : 

"In  faith,  don  Rodrigo,  thou  must  now  put  spur  to  that 
charger  of  which  I  have  heard  most  fair  report. ' ' 

The  Cid  smiled  and  said:  "Sire,  in  thy  court,  are  many, 
gentle  and  simple,  who  would  gladly  do  such  a  thing.    Bid  them 
make  sport  with  their  steeds." 

The  King  replied  to  him:  "Cid,  I  am  pleased  with  thine 

*  Supplied  like  the  former  prose  passage  from  the  Chronicle  of  the 
Twenty  Kings. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  123 

answer.    Nevertheless  I  desire  thee,  for  tlie  love  thou  bearest  ine, 
to  put  that  steed  through  his  best  paces. ' ' 


CL     The  Cid  then  put  spur  to  the  charger  and  made  him  gallop 
so  fast  that  all  were  astonished  at  the  career  he  ran. 

The  King  with  hand  uplifted  signed  the  cross  upon  his  face. 
By  San  Isidro  of  Leon,  I  swear  it  by  his  grace 
Is  no  nobleman  so  mighty  our  whole  country  o'er." 
My  lord  Cid  on  the  charger  came  then  the  King  before, 
And  of  his  lord  Alfonso  there  has  he  kissed  the  hand. 

"To  start  fleet  Bavieca  thou  gavest  me  command. 
Today  no  Moor  nor  Christian  has  a  horse  so  strong  and  swift. 
Sire,  unto  thee  I  give  him.    Say  thou  wilt  accept  the  gift." 
Then  said  the  King : 

"No  pleasure  would  I  have  therein  indeed. 
If  I  took  him,  then  less  glorious  were  the  master  of  the  steed. 
But  a  horse  like  this  befitteth  too  well  a  man  like  thee, 
Swift  to  chase  the  Moors  ye  routed  in  the  battle,  when  they  flee. 
Who  that  war-h<3Tse  taketh  from  thee,  God  succor  not  again, 
For  by  thee  and  by  the  charger  to  great  honor  we  attain. ' ' 
Their  leave  then  have  they  taken.    He  left  the  Court  forthright. 

The  Campeador  most  wisely  counselled  them  who  were  to 
" Ha,  Martin  Antolinez !    Per  Vermudóz  thou  too,  [iight: 

So  likewise  Muño  Gustióz  my  tried  man  and  true. 
Be  resolute  in  combat  like  the  gentlemen  ye  be. 
See  that  of  you  good  tidings  in  Valencia  come  to  me. ' ' 
Said  Martin  Antolinez: 

' '  Oh  sire,  what  sayest  thou  ? 
For  we  must  bear  the  burden  we  accepted  even  now. 
Thou  shalt  hear  naught  of  the  vanquished,  though  haply  of  tiie 

slaiu." 


124  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

He  who  in  liappj'  hour  was  born,  thereof  was  glad  and  fain. 
Of  all  his  leave  he  taketh  that  for  his  friends  are  known. 
Went  my  lord  Cid  to  Valencia,  and  the  King  to  Carrion. 

But  now  the  three  weeks'  respite  of  the  term  is  past  and  o'er. 
Lo!  at  the  time  appointed,  they  who  serve  the  Campeador, 
The  debt  their  lord  laid  on  them  they  were  very  fain  to  pay. 
In  safe-keeping  of  Alfonso,  King  of  León,  were  they. 
There  for  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  for  two  days'  space  they  stayed. 
With  horses  and  caparisons,  came  the  Heirs  there  well  arrayed. 
And  in  close  compact  with  them  have  agreed  their  kinsmen  all, 
On  the  Campeador  his  henchmen,  if  in  secret  they  might  fall, 
To  slay  them  in  the  meadows,  because  their  lords  were  shent. 
They  did  not  undertake  it,  though  foul  was  their  intent. 
For  of  Alfonso  of  León  they  stood  in  mighty  dread. 

Watch  0  'er  their  arms  they  kept  that  night.    And  prayers  to 

God  they  said. 

At  last  has  night  passed  over,  and  breaketh  now  the  dawn, 
And  many  worthy  nobles  there  to  the  place  have  drawn, 
For  to  behold  that  combat,  wherefore  their  mirth  was  high. 
Moreover  King  Alfonso  above  all  men  is  by. 
Since  he  desireth  justice  and  that  no  wrong  should  be  done. 
The  men  of  the  good  Campeador,  they  get  their  armour  on. 
All  three  are  in  agreement  for  one  lord's  men  are  they. 
The  Heirs  of  Carrion  elsewhere  have  armed  them  for  the  fray. 
The  Count  Gárci  Ordonez  sate  with  them  in  counsel  there. 
Wliat  suit  they  planned  unto  the  King  Alfonso  they  declare. 
That  neither  should  Colada  nor  Tizón  share  in  that  war, 
That  in  fight  they  might  not  wield  them,  who  served  the  Campca- 
That  the  brands  were  given  over,  they  deemed  a  bitter  ill ;    [dor. 
Unto  the  King  they  told  it.    He  would  not  do  their  will : 

"When  we  held  the  court  exception  unto  no  sword  did  ye  take ; 
But  if  ye  have  good  weapons,  your  fortune  they  will  make. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  126 

For  them  who  serve  tlie  Campeador  the  swords  e'en  so  will  do. 

Up,  Carrion's  Heirs,  to  battle  now  get  you  forth,  ye  two! 

Like  noblemen  this  combat,  ye  ought  duly  to  achieve, 

For  the  Campeador  his  henchmen  naught  undone  therein  will 

If  forth  ye  come  victorious,  then  great  shall  be  your  fame ;  [leave. 

But  if  that  ye  are  vanquished,  impute  to  us  no  blame. 

All  know  ye  sought  it." 

Carrion 's  Heirs  were  filled  with  grief  each  one, 
And  greatly  they  repented  the  thing  that  they  had  done. 
Were  it  undone  fain  were  they  to  give  all  Carrion's  fee. 

The  henchmen  of  the  Campeador  are  fully  armed  all  three. 
Now  was  the  King  Alfonso  come  forth  to  view  tliem  o'er. 
Then  spake  to  him  the  henchmen  that  served  the  Campeador : 
*'"We  kiss  thy  hands  as  vassals  to  their  lord  and  master  may, 
'Twixt  our  party  and  their  party  thou  shalt  be  judge  this  day. 
For  our  succor  unto  justice  but  not  to  evil  stand. 
Here  Carrion's  Heirs  of  henchmen  have  gathered  them  a  band. 
What,  or  what  not,  we  know  not,  that  in  secret  they  intend; 
But  our  lord  in  thine  hand  left  us  our  safety  to  defend. 
For  the  love  of  the  Creator  justly  maintain  our  part." 
Said  then  the  King  in  answer :  "With  all  my  soul  and  heart." 

They  brought  for  them  the  chargers  of  splendid  strength  and 

speed. 
They  signed  the  cross  upon  the  selles.  They  leaped  upon  the  steed. 
The  bucklers  with  fair  bosses  about  their  necks  are  cast. 
And  the  keen  pointed  lances,  in  the  hand  they  grip  them  fa.st. 
Each  lance  for  each  man  of  the  three  doth  its  own  pennon  bear. 
And  many  worthy  nobles  have  gathered  round  them  there. 
To  the  field  where  were  the  boundaries,  accordingly  they  went. 
The  three  men  of  the  Campeador  were  all  of  one  intent, 
That  mightily  his  foeman  to  smite  each  one  should  ride. 
Lo!  were  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  upon  the  other  side, 


126  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

With  stores  of  men,  for  many  of  their  kin  were  with  the  two. 
'  The  King  has  given  them  judges,  justice  and  naught  else  to  do, 
■  That  3^ea  or  nay  they  should  not  any  disputation  make. 

To  them  where  in  the  field  they  sate  the  King  Alfonso  spake: 
— "Hearken  ye  Heirs  of  Carrion  what  thing  to  you  I  say: 

In  Toledo  ye  contrived  it,  but  ye  did  not  wish  this  fray. 

Of  my  lord  Cid  the  Campeador  I  brought  these  knights  all  three 

To  Carrion's  land,  that  under  my  safe-conduct  they  might  be. 

"Wait  justice.    Unto  evil  no  wise  turn  your  intent. 
--WTioso  desireth  evil  with  force  will  I  prevent; 
■>-  Such  a  thing  throughout  my  kingdom  he  shall  bitterly  bemoan. ' ' 

How  downcast  were  the  spirits  of  the  Heirs  of  Carrion! 

Now  with  the  King  the  judges  have  marked  the  boundaries 

They  have  cleared  all  the  meadow  of  people  roundabout.       [out. 

And  unto  the  six  champions  the  boundaries  have  they  shown — 

Whoever  went  beyond  them  should  be  held  for  overthrown. 

The  folk  that  round  were  gathered  now  all  the  space  left  clear; 

To  approach  they  were  forbidden  within  six  lengths  of  a  spear. 

'Gainst  the  sun  no  man  they  stationed,  but  by  lot  gave  each  his 

place. 

Forth  between  them  came  the  judges,  and  the  foes  are  face  to  face. 

Of  my  lord  Cid  the  henchmen  toward  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  bore. 

And  Carrion's  Heirs  against  them  who  served  the  Campeador. 

The  glance  of  every  champion  fixes  on  his  man  forthright; 

Before  their  breasts  the  bucklers  with  their  hands  have  they 

gripped  tight, 

The  lances  with  the  pennons  now  have  they  pointed  low. 

And  each  bends  down  his  countenance  over  the  saddlebow. 

Thereon  the  battle-cliargers  with  the  sharp  spurs  smote  they, 

And  fain  the  earth  had  shaken  where  the  steeds  sprang  away. 

Tlie  glance  of  every  champion  fixes  on  his  man  forthright. 

Three  against  three  together  now  have  they  joined  the  fight. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  127 

Whoso  stood  round  for  certain  deemed  that  tliey  dead  would  fall. 
^Per  Vejrmudóz  the  challenge  who  delivered  first  of  all, 
Against-'Ferránd  Gonzálvez  there  face  to  face  he  sped. 
They^mote  each  other's  bucklers  withouten  any  dread. 
There  has  Ferránd  Gonzálvez  pierced  don  Pero's  target  through. 
"Well  his  lauee-shaft  in  tvs^o  places  he  shattered  it  in  two. 
Unto  the  flesh  it  came  not,  for  there  glanced  off  the  steel. 
Per  Vermudóz  sate  firmly,  therefore  he  did  not  reel. 
For  every  stroke  was  dealt  him,  the  buffet  back  he  gave, 
He  broke  the  boss  of  the  buckler,  the  shield  aside  he  drave. 
He  clove  through  guard  and  armour,  naught  availed  the  man  his 
Nigh  the  heart  into  the  bosom  he  thrust  the  battle-spear.       [gear. 
Three  mail-folds  had  Ferrando,  and  the  third  was  of  avail. 
Two  were  burst  through,  yet  firmly  held  the  third  fold  of  mail. 
Ferrando 's  shirt  and  tunic,  with  the  unpierced  iron  mesh, 
A  handsbreadth  by  Per  Vermudóz  were  thrust  into  the  flesh. 
And  forth  from  his  mouth  straightway  a  stream  of  blood  did 
His  saddle-girths  were  broken ;  not  one  of  them  held  out.    [spout. 
O'er  the  tail  of  the  charger  he  hurled  him  to  the  ground. 
That  his  death  stroke  he  had  gotten  thought  all  the  folk  around. 
He  left  the  war-spear  in  him,  set  hand  his  sword  unto. 
When  Ferránd  Gonzálvez  saw  it,  then  well  Tizón  he  knew. 
He  shouted,  "I  am  vanquished,"  rather  than  the  buffet  bt-ar. 
Per  Vermudóz,  the  judges  so  decreeing,  left  him  there. 

CLI    With  Indago  Gonzálvez  now  dothaon  Martin  close 
With  the  spears.    They  broke  the  lances  so  furious  were  the  blows. 
And  Martin  Antolinez  on  sword  h.is  hand  he  laid. 
The  whole  field  shone,  so  brilliant  and  flawless  was  the  blade. 
He  smote  a  buffet.     Sidewise  it  caught  him  fair  and  right. 
Aside  the  upper  helmet  the  glancing  stroke  did  smite. 


128  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

It  clove  the  helmet  laces.    Through  the  mail-hood  did  it  fall, 
Unto  the  coif,  hard  slashing  through  coif  and  helm  and  all. 
And  scraped  the  hair  upon  his  brow.    Clear  to  the  flesh  it  sped. 
Of  the  helm  a  half  fell  earthward  and  half  crowned  yet  his  head. 
When  the  glorious  Colada  such  a  war-stroke  had  let  drive. 
Well  knew  Didago  Gonzálvez  that  he  could  not  'scape  alive. 
He  turned  the  charger's  bridle  rein,  and  right  about  he  wheeled. 
A  blade  in  hand  he  carried  that  he  did  not  seek  to  wield. 
From  Martin  Antolinez  welcome  with  the  sword  he  got. 
With  the  flat  Martin  struck  him.  With  the  edge  he  smote  him  not. 
Thereon  that  Heir  of  Carrion,  a  mighty  yell  he  gave : 
"Help  me.  Oh  God  most  glorious,  defend  me  from  that  glaive." 
Wheeling  his  horse,  in  terror  he  fled  before  the  blade. 
The  steed  bore  him  past  the  boundary.    On  the  field  don  Martin 
Then  said  the  King:  *'Now  hither  come  unto  my  meinie.  [stayed. 
Such  a  deed  thou  hast  accomplished  as  has  won  this  fight  for 

thee." 
That  a  true  word  he  had  spoken  so  every  judge  deemed  well. 

CLII     The  twain  had  won.    Now  let  us  of  Muño  Gustióz  tell, 
How  with  Aí¿uór  Gonzálvez  of  himself  account  he  gave. 
Against  each  other's  bucklers  the  mighty  strokes  thej^  drave. 
Was  Ansuór  Gonzálvez  a  gallant  man  of  might. 
Against  don  Muño  Gustióz  on  the  buckler  did  he  smite, 
And  piercing  through  the  buckler,  right  through  the  cuirass 

broke. 
Empty  went  the  lance ;  his  body  was  unwounded  by  the  stroke. 
That  blow  struck.  Muño  Gustióz  has  let  his  buffet  fly. 
Through  the  boss  in  the  middle  was  the  buckler  burst  thereby. 
Away  he  could  not  ward  it.    Through  the  cuirass  did  it  dart. 
Through  one  side  was  it  driven  though  not  nigh  unto  the  heart. 


THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID  129 

Through  the  flesh  of  his  body  he  thrust  the  pennoned  spear, 

On  the  far  side  he  thrust  it  a  full  fathom  clear. 

He  gave  one  wrench.    Out  of  the  selle  that  cavalier  he  threw. 

Down  to  the  earth  he  cast  him,  when  forth  the  lance  he  drew. 

And  shaft  and  lance  and  pennon  all  crimson  came  they  out. 

All  thought  that  he  was  wounded  to  the  death  without  a  doubt. 

The  lance  he  has  recovered,  he  stood  the  foe  above. 

Said  Gonzálvo  Ansuórez:  "Smite  him  not  for  God  his  love. 

Now  is  won  out  the  combat  for  all  this  game  is  done." 

''We  have  heard  defeat  conceded,"  said  the  judges  every  one. 

The  good  King  don  Alfonso  bade  them  clear  the  field  straight- 
For  himself  he  took  the  armour  upon  it  yet  that  lay.  [way. 

In  honor  have  departed  they  who  serve  the  Campeador. 
Glory  be  to  the  Creator,  they  have  conquered  in  the  war. 
Throughout  the  lands  of  Carrion  was  sorrow  at  the  height. 

The  King  my  lord  Cid's  henchmen  has  sent  away  by  night, 
That  they  should  not  be  frightened  or  ambushed  on  the  way, 
Like  men  of  prudent  spirit  they  journeyed  night  and  day. 
Lo !  in  Valencia  with  the  Cid  the  Campeador  they  stand. 
On  Carrion's  Heirs  of  knavery  the  three  have  put  the  brand. 
And  paid  the  debt  the  lord  Cid  set  upon  them  furthermore. 
On  that  account  right  merry  was  the  Cid  Campeador. 
Upon  the  Heirs  of  Carrion  is  come  a  mighty  smirch. 
Who  flouts  a  noble  lady  and  leaves  her  in  the  lurch. 
May  such  a  thing  befall  him,  or  worse  fortune  let  him  find. 
Of  Carrion's  Heirs  the  dealings  let  us  leave  them  now  behind. 
For  what  has  been  vouchsafed  them  now  were  they  all  forlorn. 

Of  this  man  let  us  make  mention  who  in  happy  hour  was  born. 
And  great  are  the  rejoicings  through  Valencia  the  town, 
Because  the  Campeador  his  men  had  won  such  great  renown. 
His  beard  their  lord  Roy  Diaz  hard  in  his  hand  has  ta'en: 


130  THE  LAY  OF  THE  CID 

\ 

' '  Thanks  to  the  King  of  Heaven,  well  are  'venged  my  daughters 

twain. 
Now  may  they  hold  their  Carrion  lands.  Their  shame  is  wiped 
I  will  wed  them  in  great  honor,  let  it  grieve  whom  it  may. ' '  [away. 

They  of  Navarre  and  Aragón  were  busied  now  to  treat, 
And  with  Alfonso  of  León  in  conference  they  meet. 
Dame  Sol  and  Dame  Elvira  in  due  course  wedded  are. 
Great  were  their  former  matches,  but  these  are  nobler  far. 
He  gave  with  greater  honor  than  before  the  twain  to  wed ; 
He  who  in  happy  hour  was  born  still  doth  his  glory  spread. 
Since  o'er  Navarre  and  Aragón  as  queens  his  daughters  reign; 
Today  are  they  kinswomen  unto  the  kings  of  Spain. 
From  him  came  all  that  honor  who  in  good  hour  had  birth. 
I  The  Cid  who  ruled  Valencia  has  departed  from  the  earth 
At  Pentecost.    His  mercy  may  Christ  to  him  extend. 
To  us  all,  just  men  or  sinners,  may  He  yet  stand  our  friend. 
Lo !  the  deeds  of  the  Cid  Campeador !  Here  takes  the  book  an  end. 


AA     {^y 


CENTRAL  UNIVERSITY  LIBRARY 
University  of  California,  Saji  Diego 

DATE  DUE 


JUN  2  1  197Z 


DEC  28  ^98^ 

DEC  11  m^ 


jot* 


^  Ü 


MAR  2  5  1988 


DEC  11  1974 


-m 


^ 


MAR  Ü  7  mo 


!^7S 


JUN  03  1988 


Hm    :\ 


!\L's     > 


MAY  1 1 1988 


ULO 


ü^  le^s 


.n^^jUJEEL 


NOV  0."'G76 


SEP  2  9 1981 


OCT  2  9  19R] 


JAN  27 I^B^ 
JAN  2  Y  iab¿ 


MAY27JS83 


^FP2  2^9e3 


DEC  16  i983 


ci  á3EC  0  6  1983 


Í/CSD  Libr. 


